acknowledgements - revolutionisesport...funding for the project has been provided by hockey victoria...

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

PROJECT CONSULTANTS insideEDGE Sport and Leisure Planning

Whitten Oval | 417 Barkly Street

Footscray West | VIC 3012 | Australia

Telephone +61 3 9680 6370

Email [email protected]

Web www.ieslp.com.au

The preparation of the Strategic Facilities Master Plan has been a collaborative effort between

Hockey Victoria, Sport and Recreation Victoria and Victorian based leagues, clubs, associations and

affiliates.

Input and advice from selected Local Government Organisations, Hockey Australia, suppliers and respected

hockey specialists has also assisted the development of this document.

PROJECT PARTNERS

CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

► INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW 4

► DEMAND ANALYSIS 22

► FACILITIES 33

► STRATEGY 66

► KEY DIRECTONS & IMPLEMENTATION 72

THE HOCKEY VICTORIA STRATEGIC FACILITIES

MASTER PLAN IS DELIVERED IN THREE

VOLUMES.

Volume 1 – Summary Plan

Provides an overview of the zone structure of Hockey Victoria

including the facilities located within each zone, clubs and

membership numbers and key facility enhancement and

development priorities for the next ten years.

Volume 2 – Strategic Facilities Master Plan

(this document)

Provides all background information collected, policy and

strategic review, key stakeholder consultation and research

findings, demand assessment and recommended strategic

directions and actions for the next ten years.

Volume 3 – Site Audits and Facilities Condition Reports

Provides a summary report of all hockey facility audits. This

includes a condition assessment of all playing areas and

supporting infrastructure, surface ratings and lifecycle estimates,

maintenance and renewal recommendations and site photos.

3

1. INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

4

INTRODUCTION The Hockey Victoria Strategic Facilities Master Plan aims to guide

the future planning and development of hockey facilities

throughout Victoria. The Master Plan addresses the current and

future infrastructure needs for the sport, as well as establishing

clear priorities and direction for Hockey Victoria, Government and

hockey affiliates to support the growth of Hockey in Victoria.

The Hockey Victoria Strategic Facilities Master Plan builds on the information

outlined within the Key Findings Report and provides facility recommendations and

strategic directions for implementation by Hockey Victoria, Sport and Recreation Victoria

and relevant Local Government Authorities, supported by Victorian Hockey Affiliates and

Hockey Australia.

The Strategic Facilities Master Plan provides detailed information and analysis on four

key areas of facility planning impacting hockey across Victoria:

• Current facility provision, distribution, quality and long-term sustainability;

• Facility hierarchy development that guides future provision criteria;

• Projected localities of population growth by local government area identified for

significant change;

• Likely timeline and resources required for enhancing the Victorian hockey facility

network.

This Master Plan draws on the information, analysis and feedback from the Key

Findings Report and provides clear direction on the recommended strategies and

actions required to improve and develop hockey facilities in Victoria for the next

10 years.

Hockey in Victoria remains strong, and the state’s future population growth, urban sprawl

and recent success in recruitment initiatives in schools and clubs creates demand for a

clear vision regarding the future provision of facilities, and levels of support for a diversity

of hockey activity.

This report provides a comprehensive review and assessment of the existing supply of

hockey facilities and supporting infrastructure across all six metropolitan and four country

zones in Victoria. Key facility components including pitches, clubrooms and surrounds

were assessed and used as the basis for the development of enhancement options and

priorities to meet the future demand for facilities and needs of the sport. Although all

facility components were assessed recommendations in this report focus on the renewal

and development of on-field rather than off-field infrastructure.

The Hockey Victoria Facilities Master Plan investigates the facility related issues and

opportunities facing community based hockey in metropolitan and regional Victoria. The

strategic direction and recommendations in this report considered the knowledge and

resources from a number of selected growth area LGAs, major hockey associations and

local clubs and affiliates. Funding for the project has been provided by Hockey Victoria

and Sport and Recreation Victoria. 5

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Hockey participation in Victoria remains relatively stable with

approximately 0.4% of the state’s population actively participating

in Hockey Victoria sanctioned events and competitions.

Hockey Victoria operates from the State Netball and Hockey Centre in Parkville which

provides two of only four water based hockey pitches in Victoria and regularly host state,

national and international events.

Hockey Victoria is separated into ten individual zones (six metropolitan and four regional

zones) which service over 170 recognised clubs and associations and approximately

21,605 registered players across the state.

In regards to participation, there has been recent growth in the number of masters teams

(as social participation during the week becomes more attractive) and an increase in the

number of junior players in Hookin2hockey and modified hockey programs. This has

created increased demand for half pitches that cater for training and junior development.

These smaller pitches are looked on favourably by Hockey Victoria as they provide a

safe warm up area, modified program opportunities for juniors and a purpose built facility

for intra-club competition in the future.

There are 70 hockey venues and 88 hockey pitches in Victoria

(not including all school pitches, gravel pitches or new pitches

identified).

On-site hockey facility audits and condition assessments were undertaken as part of the

development of this Master Plan, with each playing surface provided a rating and

lifecycle analysis to identify priority areas for renewal and future development.

Synthetic hockey pitches dominate the hockey facility network, with approximately 73%

of all pitches being synthetic and the remaining 27% natural grass. The majority of

synthetic pitches are located in the metropolitan area (96%), with natural grass pitches

predominantly found in regional zones (68%).

The current suite of hockey pitches in Victoria vary in their level of condition, asset life

and maintenance investment. The majority of pitches used in competition throughout

Victoria are owned by local councils and are operated by local clubs and associations

under direct lease or license arrangements.

The ongoing development and standard of hockey pitches and facilities continues to

present significant challenges for the sport. The cost of base and surface replacement is

cost prohibitive for the majority of affiliates who are relying heavily on funding support

from State and Local Government.

Through the adoption of this Strategic Facilities Master Plan, Hockey Victoria and their

local clubs and associations must continue to work with facility owners, local councils

and state government on a rolling renewal and replacement program for hockey pitches

across Victoria.

This Master Plan explores the priorities and needs of hockey clubs and facilities and

provides a strategic direction for the enhancement and development of hockey facilities.

Key stakeholder consultation findings, including hockey affiliate and growth area Council

survey responses, have been analysed to identify participation trends as well as current

and future demand for hockey facilities across Victoria.

An analysis of hockey facility supply and demand using facility provision benchmarks

identified a need for additional hockey facilities in the central and eastern metropolitan

zones. With almost 6,000 current registered players and access to only eleven pitches

across these two zones, the development of additional pitches to service the current

playing market is a high priority for Hockey Victoria and relevant stakeholders.

Collaboration with growth area Councils, especially in outer metropolitan areas, to

identify priorities, site locations and potential funding models for the future development

of new hockey facilities will be a high priority for Hockey Victoria, ensuring that future

facilities are meeting the needs of community hockey.

6

SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS A range of facility development issues and opportunities were identified through research and consultation undertaken. Following is a

summary of key challenges and potential future directions for the development of hockey facilities. These issues and opportunities are

supported by evidenced based planning and detailed facility demand assessments.

• Additional pitches are required in the eastern suburbs where hockey participation is

extremely high and current pitches are at capacity. A second pitch and access to

amenities at Ashwood Reserve (Hedley Hull Field) and Elgar Park is a high priority.

Approximately 36 junior matches per week are relocated from Elgar Park due to capacity

issues.

• There is an under supply of hockey pitches in the Central Metropolitan Zone. The pitch at

Melbourne High School pitch is at capacity and the registered player to pitch ratio in this

zone is almost 1 to 500.

• There is a need for an additional synthetic hockey pitch in the South East Regional Zone

(Gippsland) where access to synthetic pitches is limited.

• There is a gap in the current provision of hockey pitches in the Phillip Island / Wonthaggi

and Leongatha area (South East Regional Zone). This is a barrier to increasing

participation and building on the successful Hookin2hockey Program currently operating at

the Wonthaggi Secondary College.

• There is limited access to hockey facilities on the Mornington Peninsula (South

Metropolitan Zone). There is a large catchment of potential players and projected future

population growth but no facilities south of the Peninsula Hockey Centre.

• There is a further issue in the South Metropolitan Zone with uncertainty around the future

use of the Mentone Grammar Hockey fields and capacity issues at Farm Road (Southern

United Hockey Club). Future development of a regional level venue in the Kingston Green

Wedge should continue to be explored.

• Potential partnership opportunities with schools in Surf Coast and Portland (South West

Regional Zone) to develop multipurpose synthetic pitches in conjunction with local

Councils and hockey associations to accommodate future growth in regional Victoria.

• Significant population growth corridors in Wyndham and Whittlesea provides an

opportunity for Hockey Victoria to grow its participation through the development of

facilities and attracting new residents to the sport.

• The development of half pitches to alleviate pressure on existing facilities and provide

participation opportunities for modified hockey is a high priority.

• It is imperative that Hockey Victoria ensures that new facility development projects that are

currently well advanced, including Hume, Shepparton and Melton, are implemented and

have a sustainable management model.

FACILITY CHALLENGES

• Hockey facilities require regular ongoing maintenance and replacement. A

specialist contractor with the right equipment is generally required to undertake

these tasks and the total cost of carpet and base replacement is prohibitive for

many hockey clubs.

• Councils that are considering developing new hockey facilities are faced with major

capital outlay and are heavily reliant on external funding and competing priorities

which impact on potential new projects.

• Clubs and affiliates understand the need to develop a sinking fund to contribute

towards future facility replacement costs but are unable to generate enough

revenue to do so. Only 55% of hockey clubs surveyed as part of this study

indicated that they have a dedicated sinking fund to contribute to the renewal or

replacement of their hockey pitch.

• Hockey facilities must continue to offer shared use opportunities and enable access

by the community and other suitable sporting groups outside of club times.

Multipurpose hockey facilities are a priority for State and Local Government and

hockey stakeholders must work with all levels of government and other community

organisations to increase the capacity of hockey facilities in the future. Compatible

sports that have the potential to share facilities with hockey clubs include lacrosse,

tennis and gridiron.

• There are a number of high quality public and private school hockey facilities in

Victoria that are not currently being used for Hockey Victoria competitions. Hockey

Victoria should continue to identify and work with schools on access to full size

pitches, synthetic spaces and indoor facilities to support the growth and

development of all forms of hockey.

• The current lack of suitable indoor hockey venues is constraining this form of the

game. Hockey Victoria has an opportunity to develop a purpose built indoor hockey

venue to attract state and national level events and competitions.

• The majority of hockey facilities are club based venues but are at times considered

regional due to their large catchment area. Hockey players generally travel long

distances to participate due to the distribution of facilities. This is more prevalent in

regional areas.

FACILITY NEEDS & OPPORTUNTIES

7

The following diagram visually represents the project methodology

and steps undertaken in the preparation of the Draft Strategic

Facilities Master Plan.

STAGE ONE

► PROJECT INITIATION

STAGE TWO

► SUPPLY ANALYSIS AND CONSULTATION

STAGE THREE

► STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK DEVELOPMENT

STAGE FOUR

► DRAFT STRATEGIC FACILITIES MASTER PLAN

STAGE FIVE ► PRESENTATION AND FINAL REPORTING

The Strategic Facilities Master Plan is a state-wide plan that guides

the future direction and enhancement of all hockey venues used for

Hockey Victoria competitions and events.

The structure of hockey in Victoria is divided into ten zones, 6 metropolitan and four

regional zones, from which competition structures and development programs are

defined. These zones are used to determine and identify potential growth areas for

hockey and gaps in the current and future provision of hockey facilities during the

development of this Master Plan. The list of Councils located in each hockey zone is

provided below.

PROJECT STUDY AREA

PROJECT GOVERNANCE

The following project governance structure was established to

support the delivery of this project.

PROJECT CONTROL GROUP (PCG)

► To provide high level strategic direction on key issues, opportunities and approve

draft and final reports – includes representatives from Hockey Victoria (as project

managers), Sport and Recreation Victoria.

PROJECT STAKEHOLDERS

► To provide an opportunity for key hockey stakeholders to have input into the

development of the Master Plan – includes clubs, councils, schools, suppliers and

regional contacts.

AFLB QUICK FACTS

METRO LGAS

► CENTRAL BOROONDARA, PORT PHILLIP, STONNINGTON

► EASTERN WHITEHORSE, KNOX, MONASH, YARRA, YARRA RANGES

► WEST BRIMBANK, GEELONG, HOBSONS BAY, WYNDHAM

► SOUTH BAYSIDE,, CASEY, FRANKSTON, GLEN EIRA,

DANDENONG, KINGSTON, MORNINGTON

► NORTH EAST

MAROONDAH, MANNINGHAM, NILLUMBIK, WHITTLESEA

► NORTH WEST BANYULE, DAREBIN, MARIBYRNONG, MOONEE VALLEY,

MELBOURNE, MORELAND, HUME, MELTON

REGION LGAS

► NORTH EAST

ALBURY, ALPINE, BENALLA, SHEPPARTON, INDIGO,

CAMPASPE, MANSFIELD, MITCHELL, MOIRA,

MURRUNDINDI, STRATHBOGIE, TOWONG,

WANGARATTA, WODONGA

► NORTH WEST

ARARAT, BULOKE, CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS,

GANNAWARRA, BENDIGO, HEPBURN, HINDMARSH,

HORSHAM, LODDON, MACEDON, MILDURA,

MOORABOOL, MT ALEXANDER, NORTHERN GRAMPIANS,

PYRENESS, SWAN HILL, WEST WIMMERA,

YARRIAMBIACK

► SOUTH EAST BASS COAST, BAW BAW, CARDINIA, EAST GIPPSLAND,

LATROBE, SOUTH GIPPSLAND, WELLINGTON

► SOUTH WEST

BALLARAT, COLAC OTWAY, CORANGAMITE, GLENELG,

GOLDEN PLAINS, MOYNE, QUEENSCLIFFE, SOUTHERN

GRAMPIANS, SURF COAST, WARRNAMBOOL

PROJECT METHODOLOGY

8

PROJECT CONSULTATION PROGRAM PURPOSE AND DRIVERS

The key purpose of the Hockey Victoria Strategic Facilities Master Plan

is to provide Hockey Victoria with a well-researched and evidence-

based approach to facility development planning.

Hockey Victoria will partner with the State Government, Local Governments and Hockey

Australia to encourage the incorporation of hockey facilities into community and

residential development, as well as work with the existing hockey community to improve

and enhance hockey facilities to meet the needs of the sport for the next ten years.

Hockey Victoria are aiming to work closely with key stakeholders, including local

government agencies and other sports, to gain a solid understanding of the current and

future facility needs for the sport.

In the past hockey facilities have developed in a mostly ad-hoc manner often with very

little strategic planning. Through the Master Plan project, Hockey Victoria aim to play a

more active role in the planning and decision making process regarding the improvement

and management of hockey facilities.

A state-wide Strategic Facilities Master Plan will be a key resource for state and local

government and hockey affiliates for the future planning and management of existing and

community hockey facilities. The Plan is designed to investigate the following four key

areas of facility planning:

• Current facility provision, distribution, quality and long-term sustainability;

• Facility hierarchy development that guides future provision criteria;

• Projected localities of population growth by local government area identified for

significant change;

• Likely timeline and resources required for enhancing the Victorian hockey facility

network.

In developing the Strategic Facilities Master Plan for Hockey, the

following stakeholder consultation activities have been undertaken:

• Development and distribution of a Project Bulletin to provide an overview of the

project to key stakeholders and hockey affiliates.

• LGA Network Forum presentation by Hockey Victoria CEO.

• Presentation of preliminary findings and issues and opportunities to the Project

Steering Group.

• Consultation and workshop with Hockey Victoria internal staff including competition,

events and development staff.

• Presentation at Hockey Victoria Presidents and Secretaries meeting to introduce the

project to affiliated clubs and associations (conducted by Hockey Victoria CEO).

• Attendance at the Annual Synthetic Surfaces Conference in Sydney (attended by

Hockey Victoria).

• Online Survey of hockey club affiliates with 80 responses received.

• Targeted Online Survey of growth area Councils with 14 responses received.

• Detailed review of Key Findings Report by PCG representatives (included SRV).

• Individual meetings with hockey administrators and facility planners.

• Individual meetings with prominent suppliers of synthetic hockey surfaces (Tiger

Turf).

• Online Facilities Checklist /Audit completed by Hockey Victoria representatives.

• Development of Draft Strategy for stakeholder review.

9

AFLB QUICK FACTS

Hockey Victoria (21,605 registered players, 170 affiliated clubs and associations, 12 premier league clubs)

6 Metropolitan Zones (14,356 players )

Central East West South North East

4 Regional Zones (7,249 players, 13 associations)

North West North East North West South West South East

Hockey Pitches (88 pitches - 62 synthetic and 26 grass)

Hockey Victoria is the peak governing body for the sport of

‘Hockey’ in Victoria and represents over 21,000 members across

the state.

Hockey Victoria coordinates all levels of local, regional and state competitions and

events and provide support, resources and direction to over 170 affiliated hockey clubs

and associations.

The structure of hockey in Victoria is divided into six metropolitan 4 regional zones, with

the majority of regional competitions organised by local hockey associations.

Hockey zones are based on broad participation areas and club locations and are not

aligned with State Government Planning Zones or specific local government areas.

Hockey Victoria's current competition and events structure includes:

• 12 Premier League and Vic League Clubs (seniors and reserves)

• Vic League 2 (men and women)

• Vic League 3 (men)

• Pennant A, B and C (men and women)

• Metropolitan Competition (based on geographical area)

• Masters (various grades of men's and women's)

• Junior competition (boys and girls)

• Regional competitions (14 Regional Hockey Associations)

HOCKEY IN VICTORIA Regional hockey competitions are administered by volunteers in the majority of cases,

with metropolitan competitions administered by Hockey Victoria. The regional

competition model is similar to the Netball Victoria model in that affiliation fees are

payable to the peak body who then provide support through governance, player and

team insurance and administration.

Hockey Victoria has developed a range of strategies, plans and policies in recent years

to help provide a strategic focus to planning for hockey and to guide their decision

making processes. These reports along with many other stakeholder documents have

been reviewed to enable a full understanding of the hockey community, and local and

state government priorities.

By the end of 2016 Hockey Victoria is working towards:

• Increasing the number of people playing hockey by 40% to 25,000.

• Introducing the sport to over 150,000 school aged children through Hookin2Hockey

and school clinic programs.

• Investing 15,000 hours working directly with Clubs and Associations on increasing

the number of accredited coaches and umpires by 25%.

• Achieve recognition from stakeholders as a leader in fostering safe, welcoming and

inclusive hockey environments.

• Growing the game in every aspect which will result in success for everyone

involved in Victorian hockey.

10

HOCKEY VICTORIA ZONES AND CLUBS

This section of the report provides detailed information on the six metropolitan and four regional zones defined by Hockey Victoria. This

includes a location map and the number of existing hockey clubs and registered player numbers provided in each zone.

Central Metropolitan Zone summary

The central metropolitan zone has a total of 2370 registered players across seven

recognised hockey clubs. The largest club is Toorak East Malvern with 566 registered

players followed by Hawthorn (523), MCC (454) and Powerhouse / St Kilda (426).

There are five full size pitches located in this zone with all of them provide floodlighting.

One of the pitches at Hawthorn and the pitch at Albert Park are used for school hockey

on Saturday morning, creating capacity issues for this zone.

The Hawthorn – Malvern Hockey Centre, located within the City of Boroondara is the

only two pitch venue in this zone which provides one sand filled synthetic and one hybrid

synthetic surface.

Central Metropolitan Zone

Club Registered players

TEM (Toorak East Malvern) Hockey Club) 566

Hawthorn Hockey Club 523

MCC Hockey Section 454

Powerhouse/St Kilda Hockey Club 426

MHSOB Hockey Club 209

Maccabi Hockey Club 170

Parkville Women's Hockey Club 22

TOTAL 2370

11

Source: 2013 HockeyNet data

East Metropolitan Zone summary

The east metropolitan zone boasts a total of 3465 registered players across 14 clubs.

The Camberwell Hockey Club is the largest in Victoria with a total of 865 registered

players, contributing to 25% of the total number of players in this zone. Other clubs with

significant registered player numbers include Waverley (621) Knox (378) and Kew (326).

There are six full size pitches located in this zone but only five are accessed for Hockey

Victoria competitions. All but one site (Huntingtower School) provide floodlighting.

Three pitches are located within the City of Monash and two are located in the City of

Boroondara.

Of the six pitches five are synthetic grass and two are hybrid surfaces. There are no

modified or two pitch facilities located in this zone.

Approximately 36 junior matches per week are relocated from Elgar Park and 35 at

Ashwood Reserve (Hedley Hull Field) due to capacity issues.

East Metropolitan Zone


Camberwell Hockey Club 865

Waverley Hockey Club 621

Knox Hockey Club 378

Monash University Hockey Club 271

Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 156

Old Carey Hockey Club 90

Swinburne Hockey Club 86

Collegians – X 83

Old East Malvern Hockey Club 23

Old Camberwell Grammarians Hockey Club 22

TOTAL 2595

12


West Metropolitan Zone summary

The west metropolitan zone is one of the largest growth areas and hockey zones in

Victoria, spanning from the western outskirts of Melbourne’s CBD down to Geelong and

the Bellarine Peninsula. The Wyndham Growth Corridor provides a strong future market

for new hockey players.

There are 14 hockey clubs located in the west metropolitan zone with a total

membership base of 2180. The Geelong Association coordinates the local hockey

competition which has representation from the Corio, Golden Plains, Kardinia, Saints,

Torquay and Newtown Hockey Clubs and are considered the benchmark in regards to

the development and implementation of a sustainable competition structure and facility

development strategy that has responded to the needs of a significant growth area.

The Footscray Hockey Club has the largest membership with 654, making up

approximately 30% of the total hockey playing membership in this zone.

The 14 clubs based in this zone occupy 10 full size hockey pitches including three

synthetic grass, five hybrid and two natural grass surfaces. There are four two pitch

venues and 70% of pitches provide floodlighting. There are also two modified hockey

pitches in this zone.

West Metropolitan Zone


Footscray Hockey Club 654

Altona Hockey Club 361

Werribee Hockey Club 278

Hockey Geelong (HV Comp) 199

Newtown City Hockey Club 175

Torquay Hockey Club 116

Saints Hockey Club 89

RMIT Hockey Club 88

Kardinia Hockey Club 55

Geelong Hockey Club (Local Comp) 46

Geelong College Hockey Club 37

Golden Plains Hockey Club 35

Corio Hockey Club 30

Sunshine Hockey Club 17

TOTAL 2180

13


South Metropolitan Zone summary

The south metropolitan zone covers a large area from the Mornington Peninsula in the

south to beyond Pakenham in the east. There are 13 clubs located in this zone with a

total registered player base of 2696.

The Southern United Hockey Club has the largest registered playing membership (563),

followed by Mentone (489) and Mornington Peninsula (381). The Southern United and

Mentone Hockey Club facilities are located within the City of Kingston and approximately

35 junior matches per week are relocated from Farm Road (Southern United) due to

capacity issues.

The 13 clubs based in the south metropolitan zone occupy 9 full size hockey pitches

comprising six synthetic grass and three hybrid pitches.

South Metropolitan Zone


Southern United Hockey Club 563

Mentone Hockey Club 489

Mornington Peninsula Hockey Club 381

Casey Hockey Club 288

Frankston Hockey Club 267

Greater Dandenong Warriors Hockey Club 237

Bayside Cougars Hockey Club 203

St.Bedes Hockey Club 92

OHA Hockey Club 64

Pakenham Hockey Club 51

Sandringham Women's Hockey Club 21

Elwood 20

Southern Knights 20

TOTAL 2696

14


North East Metropolitan Zone summary

The north east metropolitan zone covers a large area and has six clubs competing

across three different venues. The Greensborough Hockey Club are a Premier League

Club located in the Nillumbik Shire and have the most number of registered members in

the zone.

The Doncaster Hockey Club is the next largest club in this zone with a total of 513

registered players and is located within the City of Manningham.

There are six full size hockey pitches catering for six different clubs in this zone. All

pitches are floodlit and of the six pitches three are sand based synthetic and three are

hybrid synthetic surfaces.

Greensborough has two full size pitches and Doncaster has one full size pitch and one

modified pitch, located at Mullum Mullum Reserve.


Greensborough Hockey Club 568

Doncaster Hockey Club 513

Kew Hockey Club 325

Box Hill Whitehorse Hockey Club 226

Kew Junior Hockey Club 205

Old Xaverians Hockey Club 114

TOTAL 1951

North East Metropolitan Zone 15


North West Metropolitan Zone summary

The north west metropolitan zone contains 11 clubs with a combined total register player

base of 2564.

The Yarra Valley Hockey Club is the largest club with 431 registered players, followed by

Essendon (396) and Brunswick (370).

There are 13 full size hockey pitches across 11 sites catering for the 11 clubs in this

zone. There are five pitches located within the City of Moonee Valley and two in the City

of Melbourne.

All pitches are floodlit, with the exception of one pitch at Penleigh Grammar and there

are three two pitch venues. Of the 13 pitches in this zone six are sand based synthetic

grass, six are hybrid and there are two water based synthetic pitches located a the State

Netball and Hockey Centre. The State Hockey Centre is located at the State Netball and

Hockey Centre in Parkville and provides facilities that can accommodate state, national

and international tournaments and events.

The Newbury Park Hockey and Lacrosse Facility in Craigieburn is being developed to

cater for future population growth in the Hume / Whittlesea Growth Corridor.

North West Metropolitan Zone


Yarra Valley Hockey Club 431

Essendon Hockey Club 396

Brunswick Hockey Club 370

Melbourne University Hockey Club 333

La Trobe University Hockey Club 248

PEGS Hockey Club 205

Essendon Ladies Hockey Club 193

Melton Hockey Club 179

St.Bernards Hockey Club 94

Old Melburnians Hockey Club 58

Craigieburn Hockey Club 57

TOTAL 2564

16


North East Region Zone summary

The north east country zone covers a large area and has a total of 22 recognised clubs

or associations servicing 2300 registered hockey players.

The Albury Wodonga Hockey Association is the largest association in the north east

zone and provides competition to some of the largest clubs in the zone including Corowa

– Rutherglen, 244 registered players, Falcons (184) and Wombats (178).

There are nine full size pitches in this zone across seven sites, with the only two pitch

facility located at the Albury Hockey Club in Albury. This site has been included as part

of this study as the local Albury Wodonga Hockey Association are affiliated with Hockey

Victoria.

Pitch surfaces vary across the region with two sand based synthetic, three hybrid and

multiple grass pitches present. The grass pitches are located at Beechworth and

Benalla.

North East Region Zone


Corowa - Rutherglen United Hockey Club 244

Falcons Hockey Club (Albury) 184

Wombats Hockey Club (Albury/Wodonga) 178

Beechworth Hockey Club 176

Magpies Hockey Club (Albury) 161

Wodonga Hockey Club 160

Echuca Moama Hockey Club (GVHA) 158

Norths Hockey Club (Albury) 140

Mooroopna Hockey Club 109

Scots Hockey Club (Albury) 107

SYC Hockey Club 98

Strikers Hockey Club 94

Euroa Hockey Club Inc. 81

Hockey Albury Wodonga 74

Wedderburn Hockey Club 71

Warracknabeal Hockey Club 67

Wangaratta Hockey Club 49

Goulburn Valley 40

Benalla Hockey Club 39

Swan Hill Hockey Club 31

Echuca Moama Hockey Club (CV) 22

Kyabram Hockey Club 17

TOTAL 2300

17


North West Region Zone summary

The north west region covers a large area and has a total of 27 recognised clubs or

associations servicing 2122 registered hockey players.

Hockey Central Vic, located in Bendigo, is the largest associations in the north west

region zone and provide competitions and training opportunities for eight locally based

clubs.

The Strathdale Hockey Club is the largest club in the north west region with 195

registered members, followed by Eaglehawk (151) and Boort (114).

There are 12 full size pitches in this region across 11 sites, with the only two pitch facility

located at Garden Gully Reserve in Bendigo.

The majority of pitches (66%) are natural grass, with provision of only two synthetic

grass, one hybrid and one wet pitch (Garden Gully). Ten of the 12 pitches have

floodlighting, with no floodlighting provided at Kerang and Charlton.

North West Region Zone


Strathdale Hockey Club 195

Eaglehawk Hockey Club 151

Boort Hockey Club 114

Sandhurst Hockey Club 114

Mildura Wanderers 112

Waratahs Hockey Club 104

Senjuns Hockey Club 102

Donald Hockey Club 100

Koowinda Hockey Club 95

St Arnaud Hockey Club 92

CV Blazers 88

Rivaside 85

Wycheproof-Narraport Hockey Club 79

Kerang Junior Hockey Association 78

Birchip Watchem Hockey Club 75

Charlton Hockey Club 69

Horsham Hockey Club 57

Girton Hockey Club 56

Sunraysia Hookin2hockey 55

Dimboola Hockey Club 54

Yanack Hockey Club 50

Nhill Hockey Club 47

Horsham Hockey Club 42

Hockey Central Hookin2hockey 37

Loddon Murray Hockey Club 34

Maryborough Hockey Club 22

Spring Gully Hockey Club 15

TOTAL 2122

18 Source: 2013 HockeyNet data

South East Region Zone summary

The West Gippsland Hockey Association are prominent hockey providers in this region

and are made up of four clubs, Gulls Hockey Club, Warriors Hockey Club, Drouids

Hockey Club and Aztecs Hockey Club .

There are 1276 registered hockey players in the south east region covering 18

recognised clubs and associations. The Traralgon, Gulls and Swan Reach are the

largest hockey clubs in the region.

There are 12 full size pitches across 9 sites, with one four pitch grass facility (Nagle).

Only two pitches at Federation University in Churchill and Bellbird Park in the Baw Baw

Shire are floodlit. The East Gippsland Shire own half of the hockey facilities in this

region, with four pitches owned by the Wellington Shire.

The pitches at Federation University and Bellbird Park are both hybrid synthetic

surfaces. The other ten sites have natural grass pitches. There is one modified pitch

offered at Orbost which is used for training purposes only.

South East Region Zone


Gippsland Bulls Hockey Club 172

West Gippsland Hookin2hockey 121

Traralgon Hockey Club 96

Gulls Hockey Club 70

Swan Reach Hockey Club 69

Maffra Hockey Club 68

Sale Hockey Club 68

Warriors Hockey Group 68

Bairnsdale Hockey Club 67

Drouids Hockey Club 65

Aztecs Hockey Club 65

Churchill Hockey Club 62

Nagle Hockey Club 53

Wellington Hockey Club 50

Yallourn Hockey Club 45

Moe Hockey Club 40

East Gippsland Hookin2hockey 35

Orbost Hockey Club 32

Traralgon Rovers Hockey Club 30

TOTAL 1276

19


South West Region Zone summary

The south west region has 1551 registered hockey players, with Hockey Ballarat and the

Warrnambool and District Hockey Association being the largest providers of hockey in

this zone.

Hockey Ballarat comprises seven clubs including Aquinas, Ararat, Ballarat Blaze,

Maryborough, Eureka, University of Ballarat and Ballarat Oldcats.

There are six hockey pitches provided in this zone. 50% of these have floodlighting

(Cramer Street in Warrnambool, Pedrina Park in Glenelg and Prince of Wales Park in

Ballarat).

These floodlit pitches all provide sand filled synthetic grass pitches, whilst Flinders Park

and Camperdown Showgrounds have natural grass pitches.


Ballarat Hookin2hockey 135

College Hockey Club 119

WestVic Hockey 115

Eureka & Golden City Hockey Club 106

Glenelg Region Association 98

Demons Hockey Club 88

South West Strikers 88

Hockey Monivae 82

Corangamite Hockey Club 81

HookIn2Hockey - Warrnambool 81

Students of Ballarat Hockey Club 62

Blaze Hockey Club 61

Portland Hockey Club. 57

Kaniva Hockey Club 54

Technique Hockey Club 52

Mariners Hockey Club 48

Coleraine Hockey Club 47

ACU Hockey Club 33

Pink Power Hockey Club 32

Dunkeld Hockey Club 29

Ballarat Oldcats Hockey Club 24

Submariners Hockey Club 21

Pumas Hockey Club 20

Timboon Saints 18

TOTAL 1551

South West Region Zone

20


STRATEGIC PLANNING CONTEXT

The following facility planning documents were reviewed and will provide the key strategic drivers for the future enhancement and

development of hockey facilities across Victoria.

FIH Handbook of Performance, Durability

and Construction Requirements for

Synthetic Turf Hockey Pitches

FIH only allow the use of water based pitches for top level

hockey. FIH acknowledge that ongoing demand for water

on synthetic pitches is not sustainable and field testing is

continuing on the development and use of hybrid pitches

at the top level.

Sand based synthetic pitches currently dominate community

level hockey with a trend towards the installation of more

hybrid pitches.

Artificial Lighting of Hockey Pitches 2011

This guide provides important information on installing or

upgrading artificial lighting for hockey pitches and

provides advice to hockey associations and facility

owners on the planning and installation of lighting

infrastructure.

Hockey Victoria

Strategic Plan 2013 -2016

‘Facilities’ is one of seven key strategic pillars and HV aim to assist

clubs and associations with facility improvement plans.

Any new facilities or clubs developed must meet the future needs

of increased hockey participation.

The development of a State-wide Facilities Master Plan for all

levels of government, key stakeholders and property

developers.

Hockey Australia

Strategic Plan 2014 – 2018

Target of 250,000 registered participants by 2018

Development of a complete facilities strategy with State

Associations

Provision of facilities to support increased participation in

Hockey 5’s, Hookin2Hockey, Masters, Indoor, Regional Hockey

and School programs.

21

2. DEMAND ANALYSIS

22

VICTORIAN POPULATION CONTEXT

Victoria is considered to have one of the fastest growing

population bases in Australia and while the total Victorian

population is expected to increase by as much as 39% between

2011 and 2031, not all local government areas are set to experience

growth.

Much of the growth in Victoria’s population will be in Metropolitan Melbourne and extend

towards the North West regional areas.

The main growth corridor runs from Geelong through the western metropolitan area, into

the metropolitan north and up through the Mitchell Shire to Bendigo. Other growth areas

have been identified in Melbourne’s south-east growth corridor, including Casey,

Cardinia and Greater Dandenong.

Victoria’s current population of 5.8 million people, an increase of 2% since 2012, is the

second most populated state in Australia. Victoria's overall population increased by

110,500 people in the year ending 30 September 2013, which is a level of growth not

seen since the high growth of 2009. Approximately 64% of Victoria’s population is

between the ages of 18 to 64.

The population across Victoria is set to grow by 7.1% between 2011 and

2016 and by a further 14.8% between 2016 and 2026.

The adjacent table provides a summary of projected population growth for Victoria from

2011 to 2031.

LGA’s with the largest projected population growth to 2031 include the City of Wyndham

(additional 201,000), City of Casey (171,000) and the City of Whittlesea (160,000).

Victoria’s heavy population growth and passion for sport and health and fitness activities

provides a strong market for Hockey Victoria to continue to develop the sport and

provide access to high quality facilities.

2011 2016 2021 2026 2031

Series1 5,621,210 6,067,702 6,500,653 6,924,141 7,326,564

0

5,000,000

10,000,000

Victorian Population Projections 2011-2031

Population projections have been sourced from the Victoria’s Department of

Planning and Community Development; (Victoria in Future).

-

500,000

1,000,000

1,500,000

2,000,000

2,500,000

1 2 3 4 5

Victorian Population Increases by age cohorts – 2011 to 2036

0-4

5-14 15-34 35-54 55 and over

23

Population projections have been sourced from the Victoria’s Department of

Planning and Community Development; (Victoria in Future).

TOP 5 FASTEST GROWING AREAS

2011 – 2031 (%)

► METROPOLITAN ► REGIONAL

1. Melton (4.2%) 1. Mitchell (4.8%)

2. Wyndham (4%) 2. Baw Baw ((2.8%)

3. Melbourne (4%) 3. Bass Coast (2.4%)

4. Cardinia (3.9%) 4. Moorabool (2.3%)

5. Whittlesea (3.5%) 5. Surf Coast (2.1%)

In the coming years developing municipalities such as Casey,

Wyndham and Whittlesea will produce new communities with a

varied demographic and community profile, creating a future

market for the development of hockey.

The following information provides the projected growth in specific age cohorts across

these municipalities and provides support for sports such as hockey that cater for a

range of age groups from the ‘cradle to the grave’.

• The City of Casey will experience a 45% increase in the number of 5 to14 year olds

from 38,784 in 2011 to 56,399 in 2031.

• In Wyndham, the number of people in the 5 to 14 year age cohort will more than

double from 24,745 in 2011 to 50,849 in 2031.

• Whittlesea will experience an increase of 77% in the total number of 5 to14 year

old, from 22,011 in 2011 to 39,037 in 2031.

The above information will assist Hockey Victoria in their future planning for the

placement and delivery of introductory and development hockey programs and activities

including Hookin2hockey.

The development of modified or half pitch training facilities to support

junior competitions and as an overflow venue for club training should be

a consideration for Hockey Victoria and local councils in these growth

areas.

Overall population increases by LGA from 2011 to 2031 are provided on the map on the

following page. The map confirms significant growth corridors in the west, north east

and south east of Melbourne, with minimal to no population growth in the outer western

and north east country areas.

GROWTH CORRIDORS

LARGEST GROWTH AREAS

2011 – 2031 (000)

► METROPOLITAN ► REGIONAL

1. Wyndham (201) 1. Geelong (73)

2. Casey (171) 2. Mitchell (54)

3. Whittlesea (160) 3. Ballarat (47)

4. Melton (142) 4. Bendigo (44)

5. Melbourne (118) 5. Baw Baw (31)

24

HOCKEY PARTICIPATION

In Victoria, registered player numbers for outdoor hockey have

remained relatively stable, with only a modest increase in the

number of players recorded over the past five years.

An analysis of Exercise Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) and Hockey Census data

for organised and non organised hockey, along with Hockey Victoria registered player

and team information data, have informed the following summary of hockey participation

in Victoria.

• The 2008 Hockey Australia census indicates there are 90,579 hockey players

in club and modified competitions. This is 12.9% decrease from 2007. Victoria

are ranked third for the number of registered hockey players behind NSW and WA.

• In Victoria, almost 18,000 registered players were recorded in 2007. Hockey

Victoria data indicates player registrations have increased to over 21,000 in 2013.

• ERASS indicates the participation rate for adults (15+) in organised hockey

activities in Victoria is estimated at 0.7% (10 year average from 2001 to 2010).

This is below the national average of 0.9%.

• 0.7% of the Victorian population equates to approximately 48,983 (15+) people

currently participating in some form of hockey (organised or non organised).

• In Victoria, participation rates for children 5 years to 14 years is 1.1%,

compared to 2.2% nationally (ABS Statistical Information).

• Based on the actual 2013 registered player numbers provided by Hockey Victoria

(21,375) and the current Victorian population figures, the current penetration rate

for hockey in Victoria is 0.4%.

Hockey Victoria manage a range of hockey competitions and programs with their affiliate

clubs and associations offering their members a variety of membership options.

The following information provides the composition of registered hockey player by

membership type.

• Of the 21,605 registered players in 2013, 8520 are senior players (40%) and 7033

(33%) are juniors.

• The Hookin2Hockey program currently represents 11% (2,384) of the total playing

membership.

• There are currently 1,651 registered masters in Victoria.

• It is important to note that Hockey Victoria offer numerous ‘other’ membership

categories such as non playing members, social members and life members which

are not included in these membership numbers.

40%

33%

11%

8%

8%

Senior Player

Junior Player

Hookin2Hockey

Masters

Other

The following pages provide trend data on team entry numbers in

metropolitan and regional areas over the past two season and a participation

data on the Hookin2hockey program.

26


0

200

400

600

Seniors Masters Junior (full field) Junior (modified)

Metropolitan Team Entries

2013 2014

Junior and modified hockey team entries have increased across metropolitan Melbourne.

Junior modified team entries increased from 77 in 2013 to 103 in 2014, the largest percentage

increase of all team entries (33%).

27

Regional Associations with the most team entries include Albury / Wodonga (21%), Hockey

Geelong (11%), and Hockey Central (9%).

0

100

200

300

Seniors Junior (full field) Junior (modified)

Regional Team Entries

2013 2014 28

Hookin2Hockey is Hockey

Australia’s tailored recruitment

program designed to introduce

5-12 year old boys and girls to

the game of hockey.

There are currently 2,384

registered Hookin2Hockey

participants and approximately

60 Hookin2Hockey Centres

running across Victoria.

In 2013 approximately 2,366

new young people registered in

the Hookin2Hockey program.

Approximately 8% conversion

from primary school hockey

clinic participation and

Hookin2Hockey participation.

29

PARTICIPATION HOT SPOTS

A analysis of Hockey Victoria’s 2013 registered player database

was undertaken to determine key areas of participation across the

state. The analysis included a review of metropolitan and country

areas and suburbs and towns with 10 or more registered players.

By suburb

• Inner eastern suburbs of Glen Iris, Hawthorn, Camberwell and Kew recording a

high portion of players (over 1,000 collectively).

• Albury / Wodonga, Hamilton, Mildura and Warrnambool make up

approximately 20% of the 8,894 registered players in regional Victoria. This

coincides with major independent hockey associations operating in these regional

centres and the location and close proximity of strong affiliate clubs and shared

facilities.

By post code

• Victorian post codes with the most registered players include 3146 (Glen Iris

and Tooronga) and 3122 (Glenferrie and Auburn). These areas have 295 and

251 registered hockey players respectively.

• 2640 (Albury) and 3350 (Ballarat) recorded the highest number of registered

players in regional Victoria, with 562 and 301 players respectively.

By Hockey Victoria Zone

• There are 14,372 registered hockey players residing in Hockey Victoria’s

Metropolitan Zones and 7065 in Regional Zones.

• The east metropolitan zone has the most registered players of all the metropolitan

hockey zones with 3,467.

• The east and central metropolitan zones combine for 5,845 registered players and

make up over 40% of the total number of registered players in the metropolitan

area.

• The south metropolitan zone is the second highest for total registered player

numbers with 2,698, followed by the north west with 2,564.

• Of the 7,065 registered players in the regional zones, 2303 (33%) are located in the

north east and 2189 (31%) in the north west.

• The north east and north west regional zones have a combined registered playing

membership of 4492, which is 63% of the total number of registered players in

regional zones. The south east country zone has the lowest number of registered

players with only 978.

In order to establish and verify the strongest market for hockey and

identify any potential gaps we must first understand the profile of a

typical hockey player.

This is important so that hockey competitions and development programs and strategies

can be targeted and designed to not only service existing participants but be attractive to

potential new markets.

• ERASS data indicates that approximately 2.6% of hockey players in Victoria (15

years and over) are between the ages of 15 to 24, followed by 35 to 44 (1%) and

25 to 34 (0.9%).

• Hockey Victoria registered player data indicates the strongest participation rates

for hockey is between the ages of 10 to 14, with over 1,000 registered 10 year

olds recorded (5% of the player numbers).

• Of the 21,375 registered hockey players in Victoria 55% are males and 45% are

females.

• There is a much higher proportion of hockey participants aged younger than 10 in

metropolitan areas than in rural/regional areas.

• This pattern is reversed during the teenage years. The pattern reverses again from

the early twenties to the mid forties.

The map on the following page illustrates the number and location of registered

hockey players across Victoria by post code, based on 2013 Hockey Victoria

membership data.

HOCKEY PLAYER PROFILE

30

To understand the potential future participation projections for

hockey in Victoria, the current penetration rate of 0.4% (based on

current registered player numbers) has been applied to the

projected population growth across all Victorian LGAs and Hockey

Victoria Zones.

The adjacent tables provide the top five metropolitan and regional LGAs and the

estimated number of additional hockey participants in 2016 and 2021. These projected

additional player numbers are relatively conservative when you consider that school,

indoor and casual hockey participation is not included in the current penetration rate of

0.4%.

Metropolitan summary

• Over the next ten years (2016 to 2026) there is expected to be an additional

638,605 people across the six metropolitan zones, equating to an additional 2,554

hockey participants.

• By 2026 the City of Wyndham (West Metropolitan Zone) will provide the largest

participation opportunity for hockey, with an additional 536 players expected.

Followed by Casey (415) and Whittlesea (398).

• The market for hockey players in Brimbank, Knox and Yarra Ranges is expected to

decrease in the future so there will be limited demand for facilities in these areas.

Regional summary

• The South East, North East and North West Regions are predicted to provide the

majority of hockey players to 2026.

• Based on population growth Cardinia Shire will provide and additional 237 hockey

participants from 2016 to 2026, followed by Mitchell (165) and Bendigo (103).

• The Shires of Cardinia and Baw Baw (South East Region), Mitchell (North East)

and Bendigo (North West) are expected to experience the largest growth in hockey

participation of all the regions, with an additional 1366 players to 2026. This

number is significant when you consider only 1,688 additional hockey players in

total are expected to come from country Victoria to 2026.

PARTICIPATION PROJECTIONS

TOP 5 ADDITIONAL HOCKEY PARTICIPANTS (METRO)

2016 & 2026

► 2016 ► 2026

1. Wyndham (205) 1. Wyndham (331)

2. Whittlesea (143) 2. Casey (279)

3. Casey (136) 3. Whittlesea (255)

4. Melton (111) 4. Melton (227)

5. Melbourne (92) 5. Melbourne (183)

TOP 5 ADDITIONAL HOCKEY PARTICIPANTS (REGIONAL)

2016 & 2026

► 2016 ► 2026

1. Cardinia (86) 1. Cardinia (151)

2. Mitchell (35) 2. Mitchell (130)

3. Bendigo (33) 3. Bendigo (70)

4. Ballarat (31) 4. Ballarat (63)

5. Baw Baw (21) 5. Baw Baw (42)

32

3. FACILITIES

33

FACILITIES OVERVIEW

Hockey Victoria has indicated that over the last 30 years hockey

facilities have been developed in a mostly ad-hoc manner, often

with very little strategic planning involvement of Hockey Victoria.

Despite facilities being developed to meet ongoing demand Hockey Victoria has not

played an active role in the decision making processes. The general attitude was that the

‘more hockey facilities the better’. Hockey Victoria is aiming to be more strategic through

the development of this Plan.

The following information provides a brief overview of the current supply of hockey

facilities in Victoria.

• There are currently 70 hockey venues and 88 individual hockey pitches across

Victoria.

• Of the 70 hockey venues, 37 are located in metropolitan Melbourne and the

remaining 33 are located in country areas or regional cities.

• There are 62 synthetic hockey pitches and 26 grass pitches in Victoria. The

majority of grass hockey pitches (91%) are located in regional areas.

• Of the 62 synthetic pitches in Victoria, 32 are sand filled, 26 are hybrid and there

are four water based pitches.

• There are 18 two pitch venues across the state (12 in metro and 6 in country), and

seven modified pitches.

• Only three out of the ten hockey zones have water based synthetic pitches. It is

important to note that Victoria has the third lowest number of water based pitches

when compared to other States and Territory.

• 60 of the 70 hockey venues have floodlighting and 67% of pitches in metropolitan

zones are floodlit. Only 33% of pitches in regional areas have floodlighting.

• Sub standard lighting exists at the majority of premier league venues and is

impacting the scheduling of matches. Hockey Victoria state that all Premier League

matches need to be played under 500 lux lighting and will only schedule night

matches at venues that have this level of lighting. Due to the number of facilities

that do not have lighting to this standard night matches are not scheduled.

The following map identifies the number, type, location and spread of existing

hockey venues across the state (metropolitan and regional).

Hockey Victoria does not have a recognised facility hierarchy

model or levels of service that define the existing provision or

guide the future direction of hockey facilities.

The level and standard of hockey facilities is generally dictated by the quality of pitch

surfaces, the level of supporting infrastructure and facility location.

For the purpose of analysis, hockey facilities in Victoria are defined as State (State

Netball Hockey Centre) or Club based provision level. Section 4 explores the suitability

of this hierarchy and provides recommendations for a future Victorian Hockey Facility

Hierarchy that strives to create facilities that cater for all people by incorporating

Universal Design Principles.

The Federation of International Hockey (FIH) stipulate that all international and top level

national hockey tournaments and events must be played on a wet synthetic surface. The

State Netball and Hockey Centre, Monash University and Garden Gully Reserve in

Bendigo are the only wet pitch surfaces in Victoria. All other hockey pitches are a mix of

hybrid and sand based synthetic or natural grass.

There are some basic facility requirements for certain levels of hockey competition which

have been informally adopted by Hockey Victoria, in particular for Premier League

venues. These are generally based on the type of surface, pitch quality and lighting

levels.

Hybrid surfaces are preferred over sand based surface for club based venues and

Hockey Victoria sanctioned events are generally run at locations with multiple pitches.

Facility requirements and expectations can differ from synthetic pitch venues used for

metropolitan competitions to natural grass venues in regional areas.

The level of play and access to change rooms and lighting infrastructure can mean some

facilities in regional areas may not meet minimum facility requirements but still provides

participation opportunities for the sport.

FACILITY STANDARDS

34

SYNTHETIC SURFACES

Synthetic turf is the preferred training and playing surface for

hockey, and hockey was the first sport in Australia to start using a

synthetic surface at the elite level.

The sports conversion to synthetic surfaces in the late 1970’s resulted in an increased

speed of the game, rule changes and equipment improvements.

Synthetic turf surfaces were originally made of nylon however advancement in

technology and a greater awareness of surface performance and playability has resulted

in improvements to hockey facilities.

Water based, sand based and hybrid synthetic are the most common

forms of playing surfaces, with a recent trend towards semi sand filled

hybrid surfaces for community hockey.

Water based surfaces are required for elite level hockey including international and

national level competitions, events and training, FIH world level competitions and are not

shared with other sports. This surface is critical for high performance athletes as all

National and International Events are played only on water based pitches.

Sand based surfaces were once the sports preferred surface but are now less

common. These surfaces are generally used for school competitions and some club

level activity.

Hybrid surfaces are recognised as the preferred surface for club and regional level

play.

Synthetic hockey pitches can also be used by other sports or community activities and

new pitches are now being designed to cater for other sports such as lacrosse.

Other compatible sports for the shared use of hockey facilities include tennis, touch

football / rugby and gridiron, but only at a social or community level or for training

purposes.

Facility owners and managers recognise the importance for hockey

facilities to cater for a range of uses and be more accessible to the

community.

Traditionally, hockey facilities were considered single use fully fenced facilities that could

only be accessed by members of the resident hockey club. Clubs were protective of

their facility and reluctant to ‘share’ in an effort to protect and prolong the life of the pitch.

Councils and clubs now more than ever are focussed on programming opportunities to

ensure that hockey facility can be used to their full potential. Hockey is working closely

with schools and partnering with sports such as lacrosse to identify future development

opportunities for multipurpose facilities.

Design elements such as extended run off areas to cater for lacrosse, low fencing to

facilitate casual use, and adequate lighting for elite level competition and training for

other sports is being provided.

The Footscray Hockey Facility is a good example of a multi-use hockey pitch that is

being used by lacrosse, and the proposed Newbury Park Hockey and Lacrosse Facility

in Craigieburn will provide for multiple sports and community activities.

The Newbury Park Hockey and Lacrosse Facility is considered a

contemporary multipurpose facility design which will provide

opportunities for multi-use and casual participation by other sports,

schools and the local community.

The following page outlines the proposed site layout for the Newbury Park Hockey and

Lacrosse Facility. This new facility will include an extended main pitch to cater for

lacrosse and other sports, community playground and recreation areas, connecting trails

and passive spaces, warm up area, and a future community and child care centre.

Consideration, where appropriate, should also be given to the development of half pitch

facilities that provide multi-use options including junior development programs and

overflow hockey training. Half pitches are best suited to projects with limited budgets or

inadequate development areas.

School facilities generally also provide opportunities for multi-use, with the model of

school use during the day and community use after school hours working at a number of

facilities. A significant number of schools also offer some form of synthetic surface

where a range of activities can be conducted. Although these areas may not be suitable

for competition hockey, they can be beneficial to a number of sports and community

activities.

MULTI USE PITCHES

35

LIFECYCLE OF A SYNTHETIC HOCKEY PITCH

Many hockey facilities in Victoria have reached the end of their natural life and some remain unsafe to play on due to a lack of maintenance and

upkeep. As part of the audit of hockey facilities eight existing pitch surfaces were rated as either poor or very poor and requiring replacement

within the next few years.

Depending on the level and intensity of use of the synthetic pitch there is a general acceptance that a synthetic surface will last approximately 10 years and the base 20 years. Regular

maintenance and grooming of the synthetic surface will extend its overall life and the development of a sinking fund for the replacement of the surface is highly recommended. The hockey

club survey undertaken as part of the consultation process indicated that approximately 55% of clubs have a managed sinking fund for the future replacement of their synthetic hockey pitch.

The diagram below illustrates the typical lifecycle of a synthetic hockey pitch and the state of some existing surfaces across Victoria.

5 years

15 years 10 years

20 years

Synthetic turf life (10+ years)

Minor and major servicing

Shock pad life (20+ years)

Minor and major servicing

Beyond end of life

37

WHOLE OF LIFE COST

The development of any new synthetic hockey facility requires

significant capital outlay and contributions are generally required

from a number of different sources.

Its not just this initial expenditure that needs to be considered when planning the

development of a new facility, the ongoing maintenance and replacement costs of the

entire asset must be factored in to provide an appreciation of the whole of life cost of

the facility. The following table provides an overview of the whole of life cost for a

hybrid hockey pitch over a 10 and 25 years lifespan.

Source: Hockey Australia (30 years of synthetic surfaces – 2013 prices). Please note figures based on a

hybrid surface - does not include lights, fencing, goals or netting

ESTIMATED REPLACEMENT COSTS OF A

SYNTHETIC HOCKEY PITCH ► COST OF OWNERSHIP

(10 YEARS) ► HYBRID PITCH

Construction $750,000

Maintenance $250,000

Replacement $300,000

Total cost of ownership (10years) $1,300,000

► COST OF OWNERSHIP

(25 YEARS) ► HYBRID PITCH

Construction $750,000

Maintenance $625,000

Replacement $600,000

Total cost of ownership (10 years) $1,975,000

INDOOR HOCKEY

The most significant challenge facing indoor hockey is the need for a dedicated facility.

Competition for indoor court space with other sports such as basketball, netball and

futsal is high and there is limited opportunity to develop the sport within peak times. The

current competition structure is based on availability of facilities.

The ideal indoor hockey facility would involve access to a two court basketball stadium.

Dimensions for an international standard indoor hockey pitch is 18m to 22m x 36m to

44m with a fully sprung floor. A recent rule change saw the number of players per team

reduced from 6 to 5.

There is a market for a school based indoor hockey competition as almost every school

has a facility where you can play a modified version of indoor hockey. European

Handball is also played on the same size field and is played over winter so there is

potential to work with the association to develop a usage and management schedule for

any new venue.

Expansion of the State Netball Hockey Centre could provide an opportunity for the

future development of a purpose built indoor hockey facility with capacity to host

National Championships. The facility could be multi purpose with potential to be used

as a warm up/cool down court for netball.

SCHOOL HOCKEY FACILITIES It is difficult to determine accurately how many schools in Victoria (private and public)

are actually providing full or half size hockey pitches. With the exception of known

school facilities that are currently being used for competitions and events, Hockey

Victoria is unaware of the current location, distribution and condition of all existing

school facilities.

Although direct consultation with schools was not part of the project scope, a list of

school facilities that have some form of synthetic surface has been given to Hockey

Victoria. These school facilities will require proper assessment to determine their

suitability to potentially cater for any modified hockey competitions and address the

demand in areas where significant scheduling issues exist, such as the Eastern

Metropolitan Zone.

It is recommended that Hockey Victoria investigate the use of school venues in

areas of high participation to alleviate pressure on existing full size club hockey

pitches.

Indoor hockey is considered the entree to outdoor hockey and is a very important

component of Hockey Victoria’s core business.

There are two tiers of senior indoor hockey in Victoria (super league and metropolitan).

There is currently no regional indoor hockey competitions operating, other than one in

Kerang. Juniors have a district based Shield and District competition (under 13,15 and

17). There is currently no Master Indoor competition.

The following pages provide an overview of hockey facility type and location (metro and regional), and a full inventory of hockey facilities in Victoria by Hockey Zone.

38

INVENTORY OF HOCKEY FACILITIES – METROPOLITAN ZONE

FACILITY LGA NO.OF PITCHES PITCH TYPE NO. FLOODLIT

PITCHES

NO. CHANGE

ROOMS SYNTHETIC HYBRID GRASS

CENTRAL ZONE

Hawthorn-Malvern Hockey Centre Boroondara 2 1 1 0 2 0

Albert Park Hockey/Tennis Centre Port Phillip 1 1 0 0 1 2

MHS-MCC Hockey Facility Melbourne 1 0 1 0 1 4

Melbourne Grammar Sports Complex Port Phillip 1 0 1 0 1 0

EASTERN METRO

Koonung Secondary College Boroondara 1 1 0 0 1 0

Matlock Reserve Boroondara 1 0 1 0 1 2

The Knox School Knox 1 1 0 0 1 2

Hedley Hull Field Monash 1 0 1 0 1 0

Monash Uni - Clayton Campus Monash 1 0 1 (WET) 0 1 2

WEST METRO

King Lloyd Reserve (Grass Field) Geelong 2 0 0 2 0 2

St Ignatius College Geelong 1 1 0 0 0 0

Stead Park Geelong 2 0 2 0 2 2

Geelong Grammar Geelong 1 1 0 0 0 0

Altona Hockey Centre Hobsons Bay 1 0 1 0 1 2

Footscray Hockey Centre Maribyrnong 2 0 2 0 2 4

Presidents Park Wyndham 2 2 0 0 2 4

SOUTH METRO

Brighton Secondary College Bayside 1 1 0 0 1 0

Berwick Secondary College Casey 1 1 0 0 1 3

Mills Reserve Dandenong 2 0 2 0 1 4

Hailebury College Kingston 2 2 0 0 0 0

Kingston Heath Reserve Kingston 1 0 1 0 1 4

Mentone Grammar School, Kingston 1 1 0 0 1 2

Peninsula Hockey Centre Mornington Peninsula 1 1 0 0 1 2

NORTH EAST METRO

Elgar Park Whitehorse 1 1 0 0 1 2

Doncaster Regional Hockey Centre Manningham 2 1 1 0 2 2

Yarra Valley Grammar School Maroondah 1 1 0 0 1 2

Greensborough Hockey Centre Nillumbik 2 1 1 0 2 2

NORTH WEST METRO

Cyril Cummins Reserve Banyule 1 1 0 0 1 2

KP Hardiman Reserve Darebin 1 1 0 0 1 1

Maribyrnong College Maribyrnong 1 0 1 0 1 7

Melbourne University Hockey Centre Melbourne 1 0 1 0 1 0

State Netball Hockey Centre Melbourne 2 0 2 (WET) 0 2 8

Melton Hockey Club (Kurunjang) Melton 1 1 0 0 1 0

Essendon Hockey Centre Moonee Valley 2 2 0 0 2 4

Penleigh Sports Fields Moonee Valley 2 2 0 0 1 2

St Bernards College Moonee Valley 1 1 0 0 1 0

Brunswick Secondary College Moreland 1 0 1 0 1 2

SUB TOTAL 49 26 21 2 41 75

INVENTORY OF HOCKEY FACILITIES –REGIONAL ZONES

FACILITY LGA NO.OF PITCHES PITCH TYPE NO. FLOODLIT

PITCHES

NO. CHANGE

ROOMS SYNTHETIC HYBRID GRASS

NORTH EAST REGIONAL

Alexandra Park Albury 2 0 2 0 2 2

Churchill Reserve Benalla 1 0 0 1 0 0

McKewen Reserve Shepparton 1 1 0 0 1 2

Beechworth Hockey Club Indigo 1 0 0 1 0 2

Assumption College (Sebastian Oval) Mitchell 1 1 0 0 0 0

Echuca College Campaspe 1 0 1 0 1 0

Wodonga Hockey Centre Wodonga 1 1 0 0 1 2

Appin Park Oval Wangaratta 1 0 0 1 0 2

NORTH WEST REGIONAL

Birchip-Watchem Hockey Ground Buloke 1 0 0 1 1 0

Charlton Hockey Ground Buloke 1 0 0 1 0 0

Donald Hockey Ground Buloke 1 0 0 1 1 0

Wycheproof Hockey Group Buloke 1 0 0 1 1 0

Garden Gully Reserve Bendigo 2 1 1 (WET) 0 2 2

Kerang Technical High School Gannawarra 1 0 0 1 0 0

St Arnaud Hockey Ground Grampians 1 0 0 1 1 0

Dimboola Memorial Secondary Hindmarsh 1 0 1 0 1 2

Boort Hockey Ground Loddon 1 0 0 1 1 2

Wedderburn Hockey Ground Loddon 1 0 0 1 1 0

Old Aerodrome Sporting Complex Mildura 1 1 0 0 1 2

SOUTH WEST REGIONAL

Prince of Wales Park Ballarat 1 0 1 0 0 2

Nelson Park Glenelg 1 0 0 1 0 2

Pedrina Park Grampians 1 0 1 0 1 0

Cramer Street Warrnambool 1 0 1 0 1 2

Camperdown Showgrounds Corangamite 2 0 0 2 0 2

SOUTH EAST REGIONAL

Bellbird Park Baw Baw 1 0 1 0 1 0

Bairnsdale Hockey Ground East Gippsland 1 0 0 1 0 2

Nagle Hockey Ground East Gippsland 2 0 0 2 0 0

Orbost Hockey Ground East Gippsland 2 0 0 2 0 0

Swan Reach Hockey Ground East Gippsland 1 0 0 1 0 2

Federation Uni – Churchill Latrobe 1 1 0 0 1 0

Cameron Sporting Complex Wellington 1 0 0 1 0 2

Stephenson Park Wellington 2 0 0 2 0 0

Lions Park Wellington 1 0 0 1 0 0

SUB TOTAL 39 6 9 24 19 32

TOTAL 88 32 30 26 60 107

42

FIELD LIGHTING

The standard and quality of hockey pitch lighting is critical in

supporting the development and growth of the sport, and to

building the capacity of facilities to ensure their optimal level of

performance and use.

Hockey Victoria does not have an adopted lighting standard for their current level of

competition and is guided by the FIH standards for training and competition.

The majority of club facilities in Victoria are classified as Class II facilities under the FIH

lighting standards which indicate that for non-televised matches the average level of

lighting (lux) across a pitch is 250 or greater.

Of the 88 hockey pitches in Victoria, 60 (72%) were identified as having

some form of floodlighting.

Where possible the audit process included light meter readings at the majority of these

pitches and provided information on the approximate range of lighting levels being

provided.

The facilities audit identified that sub standard lighting exists on the majority of existing

premier league venues and is impacting the scheduling of matches. As previously

mentioned Hockey Victoria state that all Premier League matches need to be played

under 500 lux lighting and will only schedule night matches at venues that have this level

of lighting.

There are four main types of full size hockey pitch surfaces spread

across the state, with hybrid synthetic surfaces the most popular

for club and community hockey.

The graph below provides the current supply of the type and number of hockey surfaces

in Victoria, being use for club competition and training.

As previously mentioned in this report there are only four wet hockey pitches in Victoria,

the preferred surface for national and international hockey competition.

Of the total number of hockey pitches across Victoria (88), 34% are

hybrid surfaces, 35% are sand based, 27% are natural grass and 3% are

water based.

Natural grass pitches are generally located in country areas and vary in their overall

quality, condition and compliance. Grass pitches are used by many country based

hockey associations and although not the preferred hockey surface they are generally

considered suitable in these county locations and the level of competition being played.

It is the view of Hockey Victoria that any new or redeveloped club or community level

hockey pitch should provide a synthetic hybrid surface that does not require any watering

for general use but performs similar to a water based surface in wet conditions.

PITCH SURFACES

7

32 26

4

26

Total No.of modified pitches

Synthetic grass - sand Synthetic grass - hybrid

Synthetic grass - water

Natural grass

Surface type and number

88

60

Number of pitches Total No. Floodlit pitches

Floodlit pitches

43

To support the analysis of hockey facility data, this section focuses

on the existing provision of hockey facilities and infrastructure and

provides comparisons between Hockey Victoria’s metropolitan and

regional zones.

Metropolitan Zones

The following information provides a summary of hockey facilities in the Victorian

metropolitan area, including information on the number of venues and pitches located in

each zone and the number of floodlit pitches.

• There are 37 hockey venues and 49 hockey pitches located in metropolitan

Melbourne, making up a total 54% of all pitches and 58% of venues across Victoria.

• The north west zone provides the highest provision of hockey pitches in the

metropolitan area (14), which equates to 28% of the total number of pitches across

metropolitan Melbourne.

• The west (11), south (9) and east (6) metropolitan zones provide the next most

number of pitches in the metropolitan area.

FACILITY PROVISION BY ZONE

• 84% (or 41 of the 49) hockey pitches in metropolitan Melbourne contain

floodlighting, with 13 out of the 14 pitches located in the north west region providing

lights.

• Only 7 out of 10 pitches in the west and 6 out of 9 pitches in the south metropolitan

zone provide lighting, highlighting a gap in lighting provision at some venues.

• The most popular surface type in metropolitan Melbourne is sand filled synthetic

(53%), followed by hybrid surface (42%), water based pitches 6%) and natural

grass pitches (4%).

• The south and north west metropolitan zones have the highest percentage of sand

filled surfaces (20%) , followed by the east (17%) and the west (10%).

• For hybrid surfaces the most populated zones are in the north west (21%) and west

(17%).

• 67% of all water based synthetic surfaces in Victoria are located in the north west

metropolitan zone, at the State Netball Hockey Centre.

Pitch information by metropolitan zone

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Central Metro Zone Eastern Metro Zone Western Metro Zone Southern Metro Zone North East Metro Zone

North West Metro Zone

Metro Metro Metro Metro Metro Metro

Venues per Region

Number of Pitches per Region

NumberFloodlit Pitches per Region

44

Regional Zones

The following information provides a summary of hockey facilities in the Victorian

regional areas, including information on the number of venues and pitches located in

each region and the number of floodlit pitches.

• There are 33 hockey venues and 39 hockey pitches located in the four regional

zones, making up a total 44% of all pitches and 47% of venues across Victoria.

• The north west and south east regions each provide 12 hockey pitches

respectively, providing 62% of all pitches across the regional zones in Victoria.

• There are six pitches in the south west regional zone providing for over 1,500

registered players, and only two of these pitches provide floodlighting suitable for

training.

• Of the 60 hockey pitches in Victoria that provide floodlighting, only 32% are located

in country areas.

• Only 19 of the 39 hockey pitches in the regional zones provide floodlighting (49%),

highlighting the need to build the capacity of these venues and provide suitable

lights for training.

• 92% of natural grass hockey pitches are provided in the regional zones. Of these

61% of the 39 pitches in the regional zones are natural grass, with only 19 synthetic

surfaces (9 hybrid and 6 sand filled synthetic grass) being provided in regional

zones.

• 42% of natural grass pitches are located in the south east regional zone and 33% in

the north west region.

• Natural grass surfaces in country areas are common and in some instances

suitable for the level of use and competition being played. However, hockey

stakeholders responsible for the management and maintenance of natural grass

surfaces should consider the cost benefit of providing a suitable multi-use synthetic

surface.

• Of the synthetic hockey surfaces provided across Victoria only 30% of the hybrid

surfaces are provided in country areas, along with 19% of sand filled synthetic.

Bendigo, in north west zone has one water based synthetic pitch.

Pitch information by regional zone

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

North East Country Zone North West Country Zone South East Country Zone South West Country Zone

Country Country Country Country

Venues per Region

Number of Pitches per Region

NumberFloodlit Pitches per Region

45

An online survey was distributed to all hockey clubs and affiliates

across Victoria to collect information and assist the development of

the Strategic Facilities Master Plan. Survey questions focussed on

the condition of facilities, club occupancy, usage and management.

In total 170 surveys were distributed and 80 surveys were received. Of the 80 surveys

received only 43 were fully completed and 37 only partially completed. The Southern

Metropolitan Zone and North West Regional Zone were well represented in the survey

responses with approximately 40% of the surveys received were from within these

zones. A summary of findings from online consultation is provided below.

On field

• Approximately 60% of survey respondents indicated that their lights were in

excellent or good condition.

• There is a trend towards the provision of electronic scoreboards with approximately

32% of survey respondents indicating they had access to an electronic scoreboard,

with 20% still operating a manual scoreboard.

• Only nine clubs have fixed hockey goals at their facility, meaning that most facilities

have capacity to cater for other sports and recreation activities.

• 50% of respondents stated they have outgrown their facilities and require more

playing space.

Off field

• The ability for clubs and associations to generate their own revenue through the

operation of off field amenities and infrastructure is important to their long term

survival and sustainability.

• Over 80% of clubs have access to a kiosk or canteen facility, with 70% having a

social area and 50% operating a licensed bar.

FACILITY PERCEPTIONS - CLUBS

• Onsite car parking is generally provided at most club venues with approximately 80%

of respondents indicating they have access to parking for players and spectators.

• Over 80% of respondents have access to unisex change room suitable for both men's

and women's teams.

• Only 18.5% of hockey facilities were reported as having a dedicated first aid room,

potentially compromising the safety of players and spectators and the capacity of

clubs to respond appropriately to an injury or an emergency.

Management and Maintenance

• Approximately 30% of clubs have existing lease agreements with their local Council

for the overall use and management of their hockey facilities, with 11% operating

under an annual licence and 10% under a seasonal licence.

• Clubs indicated they generally have secure long term lease agreements with their

local Councils, with almost 60% having leases of five years or more and 30% having

agreements of 1 to 5 years.

• Clubs are paying an average of $5,000 per annum for the use of their hockey facility,

whilst Clubs under seasonal tenancy arrangements pay approximately $1,300.

• Approximately 55% of respondents indicated that their Club or Association have a

managed sinking fund for the future replacement of their synthetic hockey pitch.

Approximately 40% of clubs believe that there facilities are being well looked after

with nine clubs indicating their facilities were not being well looked after.

• The responsibility of maintaining hockey facilities is generally being shared between

Club volunteers and paid contractors (50/50). This suggests that when surface

grooming or technical expertise is required paid contractors are being engaged by

clubs.

33 clubs rated their pitch lighting and pitch condition as either excellent or good. 46

Clubs and associations were asked to provide a list of facility

improvement priorities for their existing on field and off field

infrastructure.

• On-field facility priorities for clubs from 1 to 5 (1 being most critical / immediate

priority) were pitch surface replacement (60%), followed by pitch lighting (19%) and

goals (11%).

• The top three off field priorities for clubs were player change rooms, social rooms

and canteen / kiosk. Gymnasium, licensed bar and public toilets ranked as the

lowest priorities for clubs.

EXISTING CLUB PRIORITIES

1.85

2.81

3.00

3.54

3.80

Pitch surface

Pitch lighting

Goals

Scoreboard

Perimeter fencing

Priority club improvements – on field

Clubs were asked to identify their top three priorities in relation to

overall facility use, provision and management. Responses were

consolidated and the top three responses categorised below.

1. Pitch Lighting

2. Clubrooms

3. Playing surface

Clubs were also asked what was most important thing to assisting

future club growth and development. The top three responses

were as follows.

1. Better playing facilities

2. Better social facilities

3. Assistance with promoting their club

Clubs also indicated that they would like more support from their local Council and

Hockey Victoria regarding facility development and technical information. Increased

program support and training from both Hockey Victoria and Hockey Australia was also

requested.

More clubs were dissatisfied with their off field facilities and amenities than their on field

playing facilities, suggesting more engagement with local Councils and facility owners

regarding improvements to clubrooms and spectator amenities.

Only 50% of survey respondents stated they have a strategic business plan in place,

with the remaining 50% seeking support on the future development of a club business

plan.

13

9 7

5 4 3 3 3 2 2 0 0

Priority club improvements – off field

FUTURE CLUB PRIORITIES

HOCKEY VICTORIA| DRAFT STRATEGIC FACILITIES MASTER PLAN | NOVEMBER 2014

47

A range of Councils were surveyed to assist in the development of

the Facilities Master Plan. Councils were identified by Hockey

Victoria as having a significant influence over the current and

future development of hockey facilities, with a particular focus on

growth areas and potential site development opportunities.

A total of nineteen (19) Councils were invited to participate in the hockey survey.

Responses were received from the following Councils:

• Bass Coast, Cardinia, Casey, East Gippsland, Geelong, Kingston, Knox, Melton,

Mitchell, Monash, Wellington, Whitehorse, Wyndham.

FACILITY PERCEPTIONS - COUNCILS

Councils were asked to identify current projects in their municipality that they are

working on that involve hockey, and also what future projects are being considered.

Summary of Council responses

• 75% of Councils surveyed currently have an existing hockey facility, with

approximately 57% of these being Council owned and the remainder owned by a mix

of crown land and the education department.

• The majority of these facilities are shared by other groups with external access being

managed directly by the clubs as part of their lease agreement with Council.

• Four Councils reported that their hockey pitch has been upgraded in the last three

years. Key facility improvements identified were pitch upgrades, spectator seating,

disabled access and canteen and kiosk upgrades.

• 70% of Councils indicated that interest in hockey in their municipality has remained

steady over the past three years with the remaining 30% stating that interest has

increased.

• The majority of Councils perceived that there were no barriers to increasing hockey

participation however a lack of volunteers and changing demographics were identified

by some of the Councils.

• The following Councils are experiencing current demand for hockey facilities - Casey,

Monash, Melton, Kingston, East Gippsland, Wyndham. Approximately 70% of

Councils surveyed expect demand for hockey to increase in the future.

• Hockey Victoria will be working with the Surf Coast Shire Council and the Surf Coast

College on the future establishment of a synthetic hockey pitch in Torquay to service

Torquay, Jan Juc, Anglesea and the emergence of Armstrong Creek.

CURRENT HOCKEY PROJECTS BY LGA

Geelong New hybrid pitch with lighting, practice area fencing and player

shelters at Stead Park ($1.6m) recently completed.

Casey Replacement of existing synthetic surface is a high priority

(2 – 3 years - $750,000).

Whitehorse Preparing the Elgar Park Master Plan which covers the hockey

facility to identify any improvements for the future.

Melton No improvements but have received funding to construct a new

facility (pitch and pavilion – combined with athletics) at Bridge

Road Reserve. Existing facility will close once new facility is built.

Kingston Pavilion upgrade ($200,000)

Southern United Hockey Club.

Wyndham Hockey provision 'earmarked' in growth corridors to north and

west in Wyndham.

Hume Newbury Park Hockey and Lacrosse Facility being developed in

Craigieburn.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Casey Cardinia Creek Park Lands – Parks Victoria Land ($1.8m).

Monash Conversion of grass pitch to synthetic at Ashwood Reserve.

Kingston Considering development of a new facility in the Kingston Green

Wedge.

East

Gippsland Considering development of a community pitch in Bairnsdale.

Cardinia Considering development of a new pitch between Officer and

Beaconsfield.

Surf Coast Feasibility for a new synthetic pitch at Torquay is currently being

investigated.

48

CONDITION RATING AND LIFECYCLE OF HOCKEY FACILITIES - METROPOLITAN ZONES

Enclosure Number Surface condition rating Surface lifespan Approx. lighting levels Lighting lifespan

CENTRAL METRO

Hawthorn-Malvern Hockey Centre

Pitch 1 Very good 10+ years Not available 10+ years

Pitch 2 Very good 0-1 year Not available 10+ years

Albert Park Hockey/Tennis Centre

Pitch 1 Good 2-3 years 250 to 500 lux 4-5 years

MHS-MCC Hockey Facility


EAST METRO

Koonung Secondary College

Pitch 1 Good 6-10 years 250 to 500 lux Unsure

Matlock Reserve

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years 250 to 500 lux 2-3 years

The Knox School

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years 250 to 500 lux 10+ years

Hedley Hull Field

Pitch 1 Very good 6-10 years 250 to 500 lux 4-5 years

Monash Uni – Clayton Campus

Pitch 1 Moderate 6-10 years 250 to 500 lux 10+ years

WEST METRO

King Lloyd Reserve (Newtown Grass Field)

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years Not available Unsure


St Ignatius College

Pitch 1 Good 6-10 years <200 lux Unsure

Stead Park

Pitch 1 Good 6-10 years <200 lux 6-10 years

Pitch 2 Very good 10+ years 500 to 800 lux 10+ years

JK Grant Reserve (Altona)

Pitch 1 Moderate 2-3 years 250 to 500 lux 6-10 years

Footscray Hockey Centre

Pitch 1 Very good 10+ years 200 to 250 lux 4-5 years

Pitch 2 Very good 10+ years 200 to 250 lux 4-5 years

As part of the audit of hockey facilities across Victoria, critical facility components such as playing surfaces and field lighting were rated and

where possible performance tested to capture current facility information to guide the future renewal and development of existing facilities.

The estimated lifespan of each pitch is identified by the color chart below to assist with the development of a prioiritised renewal program.

0-1 years 2-3 years 4-5 years 6-10 years 10 years +


Presidents Park


Pitch 2 Good 6-10 years Not available 6-10 years

SOUTH METRO

Brighton Secondary College


Berwick Secondary College

Pitch 1 Poor 0-1 year 200 to 250 lux 4-5 years

Mills Reserve



Kingston Health Reserve

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years 250 to 500 lux 4-5 years

Mentone Grammar School

Pitch 1 Good 0-1 year Not available Unsure

Peninsula Hockey Centre

Pitch 1 Moderate 0-1 year 250 to 500 lux 2-3 years

NORTH EAST METRO

Doncaster

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years Not available 10+ years

Pitch 2 Good 10+ years Not available 10+ years

Yarra Valley

Pitch 1 Good 6-10 years <200 lux 4-5 years

Greensborough



Elgar Park


NORTH WEST METRO

Cyril Cummins Reserve

Pitch 1 Poor 0-1 year Not available Unsure

Melbourne Grammar Sports Complex

Pitch 1 Unable to provide rating 10+ years Not available Unsure

KP Hardiman Reserve

Pitch 1 Poor 4-5 years <200 lux 2-3 years

Maribyrnong College

Pitch 1 Very good 10+ years Not available 10+ years

Kurunjang Recreation Reserve Melton

Pitch 1 Very poor 10+ years <200 lux 2-3 years

Essendon Hockey Centre

Pitch 1 Poor 2-3 years 200 to 250 lux Unsure

Pitch 2 Moderate 4-5 years 200 to 250 lux Unsure


NORTH WEST METRO continued

Penleigh Sports Fields

Pitch 1 Moderate 4-5 years 200 to 250 lux Unsure

Pitch 2 Poor 2-3 years <200 lux Unsure

St Bernard’s College

Pitch 1 Good 6-10 years 250 to 500 lux Unsure

Brunswick Secondary College

Pitch 1 Poor 4-5 years 200 to 250 lux 6-10 years

Melbourne University Hockey Centre

Pitch 1 Moderate 2-3 years Not available Unsure

State Netball Hockey Centre

Pitch 1 Moderate 0-1 year * 700 to 1,200 lux 6-10 years

Pitch 2 Moderate 0-1 year * 350 to 700 lux 6-10 years

*DENOTES PROJECT FUNDING COMMITTED FOR RENEWAL

51

CONDITION RATING AND LIFECYCLE OF HOCKEY FACILITIES - REGIONAL ZONES


NORTH EAST

Alexandra Park

Pitch 1 Very good 6-10 years 250 to 500 lux 10+ years

Pitch 2 Good 6-10 years 250 to 500 lux 10+ years

Churchill Reserve

Pitch 1 Very poor 0-1 year Not available Unsure

McKewen Reserve

Pitch 1 Very poor 0-1 year * 250 to 500 lux 6-10 years

Beechworth Hockey Club (Yackandandah Sports Park)

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years <200 lux Unsure

Assumption College (Sebastian Oval)


Echuca College


Wodonga Hockey Centre


NORTH WEST

Birchip Watchem Hockey Ground

Pitch 1 Moderate 10+ years Not available Unsure

Charlton Hockey Ground


Donald Hockey Ground


Wycheproof Hockey Ground


Garden Gully Reserve



St Arnaud Hockey Ground


Dimboola Memorial Secondary

Pitch 1 Very good 10+ years 200 to 250 lux Unsure

Boort Hockey Ground


Weddeburn Hockey Ground

Pitch 1 Moderate 10+ years Not available 6-10 years

52


SOUTH EAST

Bellbird Park

Pitch 1 Very good 10+ years Not available Unsure

Bairnsdale Hockey Centre


Nagle Hockey Ground


Pitch 2 10+ years Not available Unsure

Orbost Hockey Ground


Swan Reach Hockey Ground

Pitch 1 Poor 10+ years Not available Unsure

Federation University – Churchill


Sale Hockey Ground


Wellington Hockey Ground


SOUTH WEST

Prince of Wales Park

Pitch 1 10+ years Not available Unsure

Nelson Park

Pitch 1 Good 10+ years <200 lux Unsure

Pedrina Park


Cramer Street (Warrnambool Hockey Association)

Pitch 1 Good 6-10 years <200 lux 10+ years

Full site assessment reports for each hockey facility in Victoria are available upon request. Site reports include a detailed summary of current facility conditions, compliance

reporting and maintenance and development recommendations.

*DENOTES PROJECT FUNDING COMMITTED FOR RENEWAL

53

FACILITIES PER HEAD OF POPULATION – CURRENT PROVISION

The following information provides an overview of the number of synthetic hockey pitches provided in each metropolitan and regional zones

and includes an analysis of the existing facility provision ratios based on 2011 population figures and current club membership numbers.

A benchmark review of existing hockey facility development guidelines and provision ratios currently being used by other State hockey organisations and growth area Councils has been

undertaken. The industry benchmark in regards to hockey facility provision is 1 pitch for every 100,000 residents and 1 pitch for every 300 registered players.

Metropolitan Zones

Hockey Zones Population est (2011). No. of synthetic pitches

Pitch to population ratio

Combined club memberships

Pitch to member ratio

Metropolitan Zones 4.20m 49 1:85,714 14,356 1:293

Central 370,156 5 1:74,031 2,370 1:474

East 724,438 5 1:144,888 2,595 1:519

West 671,551 11 1:61,050 2,180 1:198

South 1.069m 9 1:118,778 2,696 1:300

North East 454,506 6 1:75,751 1,951 1:325

North West 993,493 13 1:76,422 2,564 1:197

• Based on 2011 population projections and industry benchmark of providing 1

synthetic hockey pitch for every 100,000 residents, there is a current lack of facilities

in the east and south zones (highlighted in orange).

• Although the overall supply of hockey pitches per head of population in the

metropolitan zone appears adequate, additional facilities are required in the east and

in particular the south zone where the combined population is almost 1.8 million

people.

• The lack of hockey facilities in the south will become even more of an issue for

hockey if the fields at Mentone Grammar are not able to be accessed in the future.

• Based on the recommended pitch to player ratio of 1 pitch to 300 players, there is a

current undersupply of facilities in the central and east metropolitan zone (highlighted

in orange).

• A second hockey pitch and supporting amenity at Elgar Park, which is currently being

used by multiple clubs, and a proposed new pitch at Auburn High School, would

alleviate pressure on facilities in the east and central zone.

• All other metropolitan zones are currently within the prescribed pitch to population

and pitch to player ratios.

54

Hockey Regions (All pitches)

Population est (2011). No. of pitches (synthetic & grass)


Combined club membership


Regional Zones 1.33m 39 1:34,103 7,249 1:186

North East 315,859 9 1:35,000 2,300 1:256

North West 495,179 12 1:41,000 2,122 1:177

South East 347,327 12 1:29,000 1,276 1:106

South West 178,516 6 1:30,000 1,551 1:258

Following are a series of maps for each hockey zone which identifies the location of facilities and the current number of registered players in each zone. These maps also

provide a summary of projected future population projections and likely demand for hockey facilities to 2031.

Hockey Regions (Synthetic Pitches only)

Population est (2011). No. of pitches (synthetic)


Combined club membership


Regional Zones 1.33m 15 1:88,666 7,249 1:483

North East 315,859 6 1:53,000 2,300 1:384

North West 495,179 4 1:124,000 2,122 1:530

South East 347,327 2 1:174,000 1,276 1:638

South West 178,516 3 1:59,000 1,551 1:517

FACILITIES PER HEAD OF POPULATION – CURRENT PROVISION

Regional Zones

• When only synthetic based pitches are considered the two most heavily populated

regions (north west and south east) highlighted a current undersupply of hockey

facilities based on the pitch to population ratio of 1:100,000.

• The development of a new synthetic pitch in East Gippsland will better service and

provide increased opportunity to the south east regions current and future

population growth.

• No regional zone is currently meeting the prescribed pitch to player ratio of 1:300

when only synthetic pitch numbers are used.

• The major hockey associations in the north west and south west regional zones

(East Gippsland Hockey Association, Hockey Central and West Vic Hockey do not

have access to enough synthetic pitches to cater for the level of competition and

number of players.

• Of the 39 hockey pitches across the regional zones there are 15 synthetic pitches

and 24 grass pitches.

• In the most heavily populated regions (north west and south east) there are 24

pitches in total but only five (21%) are synthetic.

• Based on current population and player numbers hockey facility provision (all

surface types) in all regional zones appears adequately serviced.

• Limited access to synthetic hockey pitches is an issue for the larger associations

operating in regional zones.

55

4. HOCKEY FACILITIES STRATEGY

66

HOCKEY FACILITIES STRATEGY

A key strategic goal identified by Hockey Victoria is to provide

leadership and advocacy to assist Clubs and Associations with

facility improvement plans and ensure that new facilities are

developed to meet the future needs of increased Hockey

participation.

This goal has been used as the basis for development of the Strategic Facilities Master

Plan, along with the identified vision for hockey of providing access to high quality and

accessible hockey venues across all levels of the facilities hierarchy.

Strategic priorities have been developed from project research, site investigations,

stakeholder consultation and analysis of issues raised through the Strategic Facilities

Master Plan.

Key facility enhancement and development priorities have been prepared for

implementation over the next 10 years. Priorities and actions are focussed on increasing

the overall provision, distribution, quality and long term sustainability of hockey facilities

in-line with increased need and demand. Priorities consider the following key criteria:

• The immediate needs of Hockey affiliates and the sustainability of the existing

facility network.

• Overall benefit the delivery of each priority will provide in maximising participation in

hockey and shared use opportunities with other sports.

• Responds to future population growth and demand for hockey facilities.

• The ongoing commitment and capacity of Hockey Victoria to support specific

actions and their implementation.

• Financial and resource commitments required.

Strategic priorities are designed to provide Hockey Victoria with the direction to plan,

identify and support affiliates and stakeholders on the improvement of existing, and the

development of new hockey facilities throughout Victoria.

All proposed strategies and actions should be initiated and undertaken in-line with the

proposed Victorian Hockey Facility Hierarchy (provided in this section).

The following facility development principles are proposed to help guide

Hockey Victoria and identified stakeholders in the future development of

hockey projects.

These principles should be considered by land owners and facility managers and used as a

guide in the planning, development and management of any new or existing hockey facilities.

1. Enhance existing hockey facility quality and capacity.

2. Address the current demand and gaps in existing facility provision.

3. Improve access to hockey facilities across Victoria.

4. Invest in facilities that drive hockey participation and support local competitions.

5. Create flexible spaces that encourage shared and multi-purpose use and diversify

program opportunities.

6. Plan for new facilities in growth areas.

7. Work with stakeholders to develop whole of life costs for facility development.

8. New facility developments should include the following Universal Design principles.

• Equitable use – the design does not disadvantage or stigmatise any group of users.

• Flexibility in use – the design accommodates a wide range of individual presences

and abilities.

• Simple and intuitive use – use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the

user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

• Perceptible Information – the design communicates necessary information effectively

to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.

• Tolerance for error – the design minimises hazards and the adverse consequences

do accidental or unintended actions.

• Low Physical effort – the design can be used efficiently and comfortably, and with a

minimum of fatigue.

• Size and Space for approach and use – appropriate size and space is provided for

approach/reach/manipulation, and use, regardless of the user’s body size, posture,

or mobility.

FACILITY DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPLES

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The following information provides a range of opportunities for

establishing an ideal and practical mix of hockey facilities across

Victoria.

The Strategic Facilities Master Plan for hockey and its future strategies and actions are

based on the provision of a mix of facilities to suit a range of club, participation and

program needs that will enable the sport to keep pace with changing trends and

demands, and provide players of all abilities with the greatest opportunity to participate in

the game at their preferred level.

In Victoria, the level and standard of hockey facilities is generally dictated by the quality

of the playing surface and the level of supporting infrastructure, rather than the location

or number of pitches at a facility.

There are no specific facility related standards or requirements documented for any level

of hockey competition in Victoria. However, it is mandatory for Premier League Clubs to

have access to a hybrid or water based synthetic pitch and preferably suitable lighting for

night matches.

There are currently only two levels of hockey facilities recognised by Hockey

Victoria. Parkville is considered the ‘State Centre’ and contains two water based

synthetic pitches, whilst all other remaining venues, regardless of pitch surface

type or quantity, are considered ‘club’ venues.

It is mandatory under FIH guidelines that international and national level hockey matches

are played on a water based synthetic surface and specific lighting requirements are

recommended for various levels of hockey.

As there is no existing state or national facility hierarchy established for hockey, the table

on the following page sets out the proposed Victorian Hockey Facility Hierarchy which

will guide the future support, provision and development of hockey facilities over the next

10 years. Its development has been informed by hockey requirements, as well as an

assessment of the identified gaps and opportunities associated with the existing hockey

facility landscape.

HOCKEY FACILITY HIERARCHY

68

STATE FACILITY

2 x water based synthetic

1,000 to 2,000 lux

Player, umpire & officials change rooms, covered team benches &media amenities

300 seats spectator area, electronic scoring, parking

PREMIER LEAGUE FACILITY

Water based or hybrid synthetic

>300 lux

Player & officials change room, team benches

Covered and uncovered viewing areas, scoreboard,

parking

CLUB FACILITY

Sand based, hybrid or natural grass

>200 lux

Player change rooms (2), team benches

Viewing areas, scoreboard, parking

(half pitch desirable)

REGIONAL FACILITY

Hybrid synthetic (capacity for use by other sports)

>250 lux

Player change rooms, team benches

Viewing areas, scoreboard, parking

(half pitch desirable)

FACILITY TYPE

PREFFERED SURFACE TYPE

LIGHTING

AMENITIES

SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURE

69

HOCKEY FACILITY HIERARCHY

UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES

STRATEGIC MASTER PLAN FRAMEWORK

The following diagram outlines the strategic master plan framework and structure for the provision of hockey facilities and development

initiatives for the next 10 years (2015 – 2025).

Five strategic priorities have been identified to assist Hockey Victoria and other sport, government and community stakeholders with the

implementation of key actions to support the development of hockey facilities across the state.

► VISION – PROVIDING ACCESS TO HIGH QUALITY HOCKEY VENUES ACROSS ALL LEVELS OF THE FACILITY HIERARCHY

► STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

(Defined for each Priority)

PRIORITY 2 Develop new hockey facilities in growth areas and targeted locations across the metropolitan hockey network

PRIORITY 3 Support the development of hockey facilities in regional cities and rural communities

PRIORITY 4 Build stakeholder relationships to fund the delivery of hockey projects

PRIORITY 1 Renew and maximise the carrying capacity of existing hockey facilities

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The following section provides a set of directions and

recommendations for each of the four identified priorities and

strategic objectives for the development of hockey facilities in

Victoria.

The proposed recommendations are designed to assist hockey and government and

community stakeholders to prioritise and allocate appropriate levels of resources, work

collaboratively and respond to emerging opportunities to help grow the sport.

The financial impact of implementing the proposed recommendations has not been

determined, however it is critical that key stakeholders, as well as potential funding

providers adopt a coordinated approach to the scoping and delivery of these

recommendations and recognise the need for multiple funding partners.

The ongoing ownership and delivery of the Hockey Victoria Strategic Facilities Master

Plan will rely on the sport to collaborate effectively with government and community

stakeholders. Regular monitoring of strategic objectives and key actions and

recommendations is critical and the alignment of resources (human and financial) is the

key to implementing a successful Strategic Master Plan for hockey.

It is important to recognise that the implementation of the strategy and the timing of

recommended actions can be influenced by a range of factors including the availability of

resources, change in government policy or identification of new opportunities.

The diagram at the bottom of the page provides a framework for the ongoing support,

resourcing and implementation of the Strategic Master Plan.

The implementation of the proposed recommendations and action plan requires internal

and external stakeholders to play three important roles in delivering actions:

IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING

Initiate

Refers to the planning, scoping , and coordinating the range and timing of actions to be

delivered.

Deliver

Refers to on the ground delivery of identified actions and the management of key partner

and stakeholder contributions.

Support

Refers to organisational support for action delivery through the provision of resources,

people, skills, funding, equipment and/or promotional activities.

The Hockey Victoria Strategic Facilities Master Plan is a ten year plan (2015 – 2025)

designed to provide practical and achievable strategies and actions for key stakeholders.

Each recommendation has been allocated a level of priority based on their relative impact

on delivering the desired outcomes and supporting the overall Master Plan vision.

High

Important action that underpins the delivery of high quality and accessible hockey facilities

across the state.

Medium

Action that contributes to meeting overall Strategic Master Plan objectives.

Low

Action that contributes to the overall improvement of hockey facilities in Victoria.

Ongoing

Action that will require an ongoing commitment by key stakeholders or a long-term change

in systems and procedures resulting in ongoing consideration and implementation.

Reporting Strategic

Measurement System Action and

Implementation

Hockey Victoria Strategic Facilities

Master Plan

Strategic Priorities

Develop a facilities sub-committee to oversee

implementation Annual Review

Hockey Victoria Annual General Meeting

Implement Master Plan priorities and actions

Ongoing Review Hockey Victoria Board Meetings

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PRIORITY 1 Renew and maximise the capacity of existing hockey facilities

The ongoing renewal and enhancement of existing facilities is critical to participation and growth in hockey and the sustainability of local and regional competitions. The

renewal gap for playing surfaces in particular continues to widen and facility owners and hockey users are finding it increasingly difficult to fund replacement pitches from

a cost perspective, which is impacting on the level of play and use of facilities.

There is a mixed approach to the provision and maintenance of infrastructure across the state and pitches that receive regular maintenance and grooming are generally

performing to a higher standard and providing maximum life expectancy. A full audit of hockey facilities was undertaken and provides information on the existing condition

of facilities, surface rating, lux levels and lifespan of playing surfaces and lighting infrastructure. A prioiritised list of surface renewal projects has been recommended to

assist stakeholders and funding partners with future planning and renewal projects.

Key recommendations Priority Stakeholder Responsibility

Initiator Deliverer Supporter

1. Formally adopt the proposed hockey facility hierarchy model and ensure a consistent approach to the future

enhancement and development of facilities that meets the criteria and facility requirements identified at each

level of the hierarchy.

HIGH HV HV CLUBS / SRV

2. Develop a set of facility development guidelines as a resource for Victorian hockey affiliates, developers,

schools and councils. Guidelines to refer to FIH standards and Universal Design Principles, and include pitch

dimensions, preferred surfaces, change room sizes and lighting requirements.

HIGH HV HV CLUBS / SRV

3. Compile an inventory of existing and planned school facilities (public and private) with spaces for hockey

activity and work with facility owners and managers to obtain access to these sites to run a variety of hockey

activities including Hookin2Hockey, District Primary School Competitions and Intra-club.

HIGH HV HV / SCHOOLS CLUBS /

DEECD

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES & OUTCOMES

• Create greater awareness and understanding of hockey facility requirements.

• Reduce the renewal gap and improve the standard of facilities by providing at least one water based synthetic pitch in each hockey zone to

support player development and provide suitable facilities for national and international training and events.

• Expand opportunities with school to increase hockey activity.

• Utilise the hockey audit system and develop a fully costed hockey renewal program.

72



4. In partnership with local Council’s, land owners, state government agencies and hockey affiliates implement

priority renewal and development recommendations identified in the Hockey Facility Audit Program, giving

consideration to the level of competition and use, compliance and funding availability. Aim to provide at least

one water based synthetic pitch in each hockey zone.

Priority SURFACE renewal project identified (metropolitan zones):

- Peninsula Hockey Centre

- Hawthorn Malvern (Pitch 2)

- Mentone Grammar

- Berwick Secondary College

- Cyril Cummins Reserve

- Hardiman Reserve

Priority SURFACE renewal project identified (regional zones):

- Wodonga Hockey Centre

- Churchill Reserve (Benalla)

- Swan Reach Hockey Ground

Priority LIGHTING renewal project identified:

- Greensborough Hockey Centre (Pitch 1)

- Hardiman Reserve (Darebin)

- Beechworth Hockey Centre

- Cramer Street (Warrnambool)

HIGH HV FACILITY

OWNER

CLUBS /

COUNCIL /

SRV

5. Consider the benefits of licensing the ongoing use of the online Hockey Facility Audit Program to maintain an

up to date inventory and condition report of all hockey facilities in Victoria and commit to undertaking a state-

wide audit of all hockey facilities every five years.

HIGH HV HV CLUBS

6. Develop a lighting strategy to support hockey activity and build the capacity of existing facilities. The strategy

should provide a detailed assessment of existing lighting infrastructure and lux levels and aim to deliver an

appropriate standard floodlighting at every hockey venue.

HIGH HV HV / FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS

7. Work with Premier League Clubs to ensure all Premier League venues meet the required facility standards for

lighting, pitch type and quality and supporting amenities, in line with the proposed hockey facility hierarchy. MEDIUM

HV / FACILITY

OWNER

FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS

73



8. Develop a clear understanding and knowledge of all hockey renewal projects identified and explore facility

expansion opportunities with hockey affiliates, facility owners and other sporting codes to facilitate shared use

opportunities and other compatible sports.

MEDIUM HV / FACILITY

OWNER

FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS

9. Work with local providers and facility owners to facilitate and encourage the development of indoor hockey

facilities, with the aim of delivering a state level facility within the next ten years. LOW HV

FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS / SRV

10. In conjunction with preferred hockey infrastructure suppliers develop cost estimates for the proposed renewal

of existing facilities to assist facility owners based on lifecycle recommendations provided in the audit report. LOW HV SUPPLIER CLUBS

74

PRIORITY 2 Develop new hockey facilities in growth areas and targeted locations across the

metropolitan hockey network.

The Strategic Facilities Master Plan has identified gaps in existing facility provision across the metropolitan hockey network to meet the current needs of the sport. The

development of new hockey facilities in the east and south metropolitan zones is required to address the lack of facilities and meet the immediate needs of clubs and

players in these areas, and to provide access to facilities that promote the future growth and development of the sport.

Growth area planning will inform the development of new community infrastructure required to meet future population growth across Victoria. A range of growth area and

precinct structure plans were reviewed to establish and understanding of future requirements and the likely demand for hockey infrastructure to support new communities.

Integrating the needs of hockey into the future planning of growth areas will be a high priority for Hockey Victoria, and the development of multipurpose regional hockey

hubs that act as a central point for local hockey competitions in these locations is the preferred facility development model.



1. Hockey Victoria to develop a hockey pitch development framework and work with Council’s and hockey

affiliates to progress detailed planning of identified hockey projects and to provide additional facilities in

locations where gaps and future demand have been identified. Aim to provide at least one water based

synthetic pitch in each hockey zone.

New priority development projects identified:

- two new hockey facilities in the South Metropolitan Zone

(one potentially within the Kingston Green Wedge and one within the Shire of Cardinia between Officer and

Beaconsfield).

- development of a second pitch at Ashwood Reserve to alleviate the demand for facilities in the East

Metropolitan Zone and support growth and capacity constraints of the Waverley Hockey Club.

HIGH HV

FACILITY

OWNER

CLUBS / SRV /

DEVELOPER


• Develop additional hockey facilities to meet future population growth and demand.

• Develop a hockey pitch development framework to guide stakeholder investment and support detailed planning for new facilities in key

growth areas.

• Future facility development to support Hockey Victoria’s proposed club based competitions structure and provide player development

opportunities through construction of more water based synthetic pitches.

75



- one additional pitch in either the East or North East Metropolitan Zone

(support the proposed new pitch at Auburn High School and the development of a second pitch at Elgar

Park).

- In partnership with schools explore the future development of new hockey facilities to meet the current

demand for hockey in the Central Metropolitan and South Metropolitan Zone (Mornington Peninsula).

HIGH HV

FACILITY

OWNER

CLUBS / SRV /

DEVELOPER

2. Develop at least one ‘community hockey hub’ in each metropolitan zone to support Hockey Victoria’s local

competition restructure and vision of providing dedicated event and shared community use venues. HIGH HV

FACILITY

OWNER(S) CLUBS

3. Provide ongoing support and advice to stakeholders to guide the successful implementation and

establishment of new hockey projects in the City of Hume (North West Metro) and Greater Shepparton

(North East Country).

HIGH

HV

FACILITY

OWNER(S)

CLUBS

4. Provide ongoing support and advice to stakeholders to guide the successful establishment and

implementation of the new hockey facility at Bridge Road Reserve, within the City of Melton’s growth area.

This facility will replace the existing Melton Hockey Club facility at Kuranjang Recreation Reserve.

HIGH HV FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS

5. Plan for the future development and establishment of new hockey facilities in Melbourne’s designated growth

areas of Wyndham, Casey and Cardinia, which are all expected to exceed 100,000 people by 2031 and

support a potential new market for hockey.

HIGH HV LGA DEVELOPERS

6. Initiate pre-feasibility planning with growth area Council’s and support Council’s in undertaking detailed local

area, site and master planning exercises to help formulate the basis for viable hockey clubs. MEDIUM HV LGA DEVELOPERS

7. Adopt the proposed planning benchmarks to guide future provision levels in established and new growth

areas. These include a facility establishment benchmark of one club for every 100,000 residents and a pitch

to player ratio of one full-size synthetic hockey pitch for every 300 players.

MEDIUM

HV

FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS

76

PRIORITY 3 Support the development of hockey facilities in regional cities and

rural communities.

Access to high quality synthetic hockey pitches with adequate supporting amenities in regional and rural Victoria is limited, with grass pitches dominating country hockey

and many being unsuitable to host competitive matches. Outside of the major regional cities such as Bendigo, Geelong and Shepparton hockey participation is being

impacted by access to synthetic hockey pitches and the distance required for players to travel to participate in local competitions.

The capacity of rural councils to fund hockey projects and the conversion of grass to synthetic pitches is limited and a partnership approach involving multiple stakeholders

and potential providers is essential to achieving sport government and community objectives for hockey. The model of providing community hockey facilities within schools

is being considered in a number of country areas and should be pursued by Hockey Victoria as a viable option for developing new facilities and supporting country hockey.



1. Work with regional and rural Council’s and local country hockey associations to progress detailed planning of

identified hockey projects and provide additional facilities in locations where gaps and future demand has

been identified.

New priority development projects identified:

- one new community pitch in the South East Regional Zone with Bairnsdale being the preferred site. The

proposed new pavilion development at Federation University (Churchill) and the pavilion upgrade at Bellbird

Park (Drouin) should be supported by all stakeholders located in the South East Regional Zone.

- provide at least one community pitch in the South West Regional Zone

(either at the Torquay or Newtown Hockey Club).

- monitor the demand for a new synthetic pitch in Portland (South West Region) and provide in principle

support for a shared use community facility located at the Portland Secondary College.

HIGH

HV

HV

CLUBS /

ASSOCIATIONS


• Investigate school partnership in regional zones to progress facility development opportunities.

• Investigate the future role and purpose of grass pitches across regions.

• Initiate planning and club health checks with country hockey leagues and associations.

77



2. Conduct a service review and ‘health check’ of country hockey leagues and associations to understand

performance levels, current and future usage and facility requirements to inform decision making. HIGH HV HV CLUBS

3. Support and encourage country hockey associations to develop a facility master plan for each hockey venue

in partnership with local councils to understand future site requirements and development opportunities. MEDIUM HV CLUBS LGAS

4. Ensure the hockey facility development guidelines include a preferred model for hockey projects developed

on school land . These guidelines should consider the broader school and community use of hockey

facilities on school land.

MEDIUM HV HV SCHOOLS

5. Review the ongoing use and need for existing natural grass hockey pitches in rural and regional locations

and identify and advocate for the conversion to a hybrid synthetic surface in areas of high demand. MEDIUM HV HV LGAS/CLUBS

6. Prioiritse the development of accessible and unisex change rooms and amenities in regional zones to

maximise facility usage and encourage greater participation by women and girls.

MEDIUM

HV LGA CLUBS

7. Develop at least one ‘hockey hub’ in each regional zone to support the growth and development of hockey

and to provide a dedicated event venue and shared community use. MEDIUM HV

FACILITY

OWNER SRV

8. Where budget restrictions and land availability is limited, explore opportunities to develop half size synthetic

pitches at existing venues or in schools to provide opportunities for training and junior development in

regional and rural areas.

MEDIUM HV FACILITY

OWNER CLUBS

9. Review the role and distribution of regional development officers in regional zones and address key

geographical and financial challenges that are currently impacting on the delivery and growth of hockey in

the country.

LOW HV HV CLUBS

78

PRIORITY 4 Build stakeholder relationships to fund the delivery of hockey projects.

The significant cost required to support the delivery of hockey infrastructure across the state is a challenge for the sport and the implementation of recommended actions in

this master plan will require input from multiple stakeholders and potential funding partners.

Ownership and acceptance of the strategic directions and facility development prioritise identified in this master plan from the hockey community is the first step to its

successful implementation. Strengthening Hockey Victoria’s relationship with hockey affiliates will be a key outcome through the adoption of this master plan, and

developing a greater understanding and sharing of facility information will support a collaborative approach to the future enhancement and development of hockey facilities.

Hockey Victoria is encouraged to lead the implementation of this master plan and work in partnership with key stakeholders such as state and local government, schools,

facility owners, developers and local hockey providers to achieve the vision of providing access to high quality community hockey facilities.



1. Present the key findings and recommendations of the Strategic Facilities Master Plan to hockey affiliates at

the Hockey Victoria led Presidents and Secretaries meeting to outline Hockey Victoria’s approach and

strategic intent for future facility development.

HIGH HV HV CLUBS

2. Share detailed site assessment reports and facility recommendations with each hockey affiliate and share

facility information with facility owners and managers to increase communication and to understand renewal

priorities.

HIGH HV HV CLUBS

3. Hockey Victoria to review its registered player database and adopt a more comprehensive and consistent

player and club management system to enable participation and trend data to be analysed and inform future

operational and facility development.

HIGH HV HV HV

4. Establish strong relationships with growth area planners, developers and local government representatives

to advocate for the development of new hockey facilities in designated growth areas where projected

population growth is likely to support future facility development.

HIGH HV HV LGAS


• Share and discuss facility audits to empower staff and build stakeholder relationships.

• Develop a funding strategy in partnership with local and state government for the life of the plan

• Align hockey zones with government planning zones.

• Review and improve registered player database and club management system.

79



5. Develop new local competition structures across the state to promote and develop club based hockey

leagues and address the poor retention rate of players and conversion of hookin2hockey participants to

existing competitions.

HIGH HV CLUBS CLUBS

6. Develop a funding strategy framework in line with local government and other facility owner funding policies

to financially support and advocate for the future renewal and upgrade of existing hockey facilities. MEDIUM HV HV CLUBS

7. Enhance the relationship between hockey, government and community partners and build the capacity of

hockey affiliates to contribute to the renewal and development of facilities. MEDIUM HV HV CLUBS

8. Review existing metropolitan and regional hockey zones and deliver a solid governance structure to ensure

alignment of competitions structures, leagues and associations that demonstrates consistency in hockey

planning and delivery.

MEDIUM HV HV CLUBS

9. Define catchment areas for each zone and geographically align hockey with sport and government planning

zones / regions. LOW HV HV CLUBS

10. Hockey Victoria will need to work in partnership with stakeholders to promote the importance and benefits of

hockey and ensure greater representation in Local Government sport, recreation and community planning,

particularly in growth areas.

LOW HV HV ALL

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acknowledgements - revolutionisesport...funding for the project has been provided by hockey victoria...

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